NBA DFS Picks for the Playoffs: Celtics vs Knicks – Game 6

The Eastern Conference Semifinal battle between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks heads into a critical Game 6 tonight at Madison Square Garden. Boston enters with a 3-2 series advantage after a big victory in Game 5 at TD Garden, but they’ll now face the challenge of closing out the series on the road — and without their superstar, Jayson Tatum, who suffered a torn Achilles.

With the Knicks fighting to extend their postseason run and force a decisive Game 7, this evening’s matchup could define the trajectory of both franchises. Let’s look at how this series has developed and highlight our top DFS play for tonight’s must-see Game 6.

Celtics vs Knicks Series Recap

The Eastern Conference Semifinal series between the Celtics and Knicks has been a dramatic back-and-forth battle marked by huge swings in momentum and a devastating injury. In Game 1, the Knicks came back from a 20-point deficit to stun Boston on their home court, pulling off a 108–105 overtime win behind 29-point efforts from Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby. The Celtics couldn’t capitalize on big scoring nights from Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, as their three-point shooting struggled and late-game turnovers proved costly. 

Game 2 was another tight contest, with New York again coming away with the win, 91–90, as Brunson hit clutch free throws down the stretch and Boston faltered in crunch time, falling into a 0–2 series hole.

Boston responded in Game 3 with urgency and intensity, dominating the Knicks on the road in a 115–93 blowout. Jaylen Brown erupted for 36 points and helped lead a defensive effort that disrupted New York’s rhythm. 

Game 4, however, brought a crushing setback for the Celtics. Although Jayson Tatum was in peak form, scoring 42 points, he suffered a torn Achilles tendon in the second half. This injury not only shifted the game, which Boston lost 121–113, but could also alter the course of their postseason and the team’s future.

Facing elimination back in Boston for Game 5, the Celtics dug deep. Derrick White shouldered the scoring load, finishing with 36 points, while Jaylen Brown finished with 26 on the way to a 127-102 victory. As the series shifts back to New York for Game 6, Boston trails 3–2 and will need another huge performance to force a Game 7 without their leading scorer.

Celtics vs Knicks DFS Picks

With Jayson Tatum out, the DFS landscape shifts dramatically for Boston. Jaylen Brown becomes the centerpiece of the Celtics offense and a top fantasy target. He’s taken on a larger usage rate and has delivered in high-pressure moments, making him an ideal high-upside play tonight.

Derrick White is another name to consider since he’s coming off a huge game. His scoring has been up and down, but his minutes are secure and he offers solid value with his ability to contribute across the stat sheet — points, assists and defensive stats.

For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson remains the primary playmaker and most reliable fantasy producer and is coming off a 22-point, 6-rebound game. Despite inconsistent shooting nights, he brings high usage and strong assist numbers. Expect him to be aggressive in a win-or-go-home scenario.

Josh Hart continues to provide steady production. In Game 5, he finished with 24 points and 7 rebounds. His physicality and shot volume give him a stable fantasy floor, though efficiency can be a concern if he does not knock down shots from behind the arc.

However, my top pick once again tonight is Jaylen Brown. He’s been Boston’s emotional and scoring leader in Tatum’s absence, and if the Celtics are going to close out the series in one of the league’s toughest venues, it’ll be on Brown’s shoulders.

Our Pick: Jaylen Brown to Record 25+ Points