Boston defeated Orlando in five games, facing challenges with perimeter shooting, while the Celtics historically outperformed New York in 3-pointers and will likely score over 111.5 points due to a faster pace and a fully rested roster.

Towns' assists may increase against the Celtics due to their height advantage on defense, leading to more playmaking opportunities.

KAT averaged 35.9 points and rebounds at Madison Square Garden, 37.3 at other venues, and recorded 26 at home and 33.4 on the road in the playoffs, while averaging 18.5 points and rebounds in two blowout games and 45 in two competitive games against the Knicks and Celtics.

Jayson Tatum has hit the Over on his combo line in three consecutive games and averaged 47.3 PRA against the Knicks in four regular season matchups.

Since the All-Star Break, Boston ranks No. 22 in the NBA for opposing 3-point rate, allowing 43.4% of shots from beyond the arc.

Since the All-Star Break, New York limited opponents to 35.1% shooting from three-point range while those opponents attempted 41.1% of their shots from beyond the arc, both ranking No. 8 in the NBA; Boston relies heavily on perimeter shooting, a factor in their championship struggles, and while they will continue to shoot three-pointers, they will have fewer attempts and less favorable looks, with Jayson Tatum shooting 34.3% from three this season.

Hart averages 9.6 rebounds and 5.9 assists this season, shooting 33.3% from three-point range, and the Celtics are likely to allow him open shots.