Celtics @ Knicks tips, picks and prop bets: New York cover, Tatum and Randle points props

The first hump day of the NBA season is headlined by the Boston Celtics trip to face the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night (12am Thursday).

Celtics @ Knicks game pick

Expectations are high for the Boston Celtics. They’re another year wiser and their talented crop of players is expected to challenge for the title again.

They’re an excellent defensive unit and the electric duo of Jayson Tatum and and Jaylen Brown have starring roles to play once again.

However, with high expectations comes some tax in the form of inflated lines. Joe Mazzulla’s side opened a -4 favourite to win on the road.

They’re facing a New York Knicks team that won 47 times last season and went 24-17 at the Garden and have a one-two punch of their own with Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle.

There is a lot to like about the Knicks as a defence and the opening night atmosphere should help contribute to keeping this game close and competitive for the duration.

Boston have added some serious talent in Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday. On the other hand, we spoke in our Warriors and Suns preview about how it takes time to gel new pieces.

Bet: New York Knicks +4

Celtics @ Knicks prop bets

The arrival of Kristaps Porzingis adds another potential scorer, so don’t expect it to be all about Jayson Tatum on opening night.

Prop: Jayson Tatum Under 26.5 points

This is a solid Celtics defence and we suspect the total of 223 is a little high, so equally, Julius Randle could be limited.

Prop: Julius Randle Under 22.5 points

It’s going to take time for Jrue Holiday and his new Boston teammates to sync up.

Prop: Jrue Holiday Under 7.5 assists