Context:

In a detailed analysis of NBA playoff betting for May 7, the discussion centers around two Game 2 matchups where home teams seek redemption after being upset in Game 1. Boston Celtics, despite an impressive record of recovering after home losses, were unexpectedly defeated by the New York Knicks due to an over-reliance on three-point shooting, missing a record 45 attempts. The Knicks' Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby's strong performances, along with Boston's setback of Kristaps Porzingis's illness, led to their loss. The prediction for the Celtics' upcoming game suggests an improvement in their shooting but cautions against the high spread, recommending a bet on New York. In another matchup, the Denver Nuggets, emerging victorious in Game 1 against Oklahoma City Thunder, are expected to face a challenging Game 2, with the Thunder favored to capitalize on their home advantage and the Nuggets' potential complacency after their initial win.

Dive Deeper:

• The article provides insights into betting strategies for NBA playoffs, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of games and the importance of assessing team performance and identity from previous matches.

• Boston Celtics, who have shown resilience after home losses with a 20-0 record, were unexpectedly beaten by the New York Knicks in Game 1, mainly due to their excessive focus on three-point shots, resulting in a record 45 misses.

• Key players like Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby were instrumental for the Knicks, each scoring 29 points, while the Celtics suffered a setback with Kristaps Porzingis unable to play due to illness.

• The prediction for Game 2 between the Celtics and Knicks suggests Boston will improve its shooting accuracy, but the high point spread makes betting on New York a more favorable option.

• In the Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder matchup, Denver managed a comeback win in Game 1 but is expected to face a stronger challenge in Game 2, with Thunder likely to leverage their home court advantage.

• Russell Westbrook's performance off the bench has become a focal point, as he averages 17.2 points over his last four games, but the Nuggets' strategy suggests they might be satisfied with their earlier win, giving Thunder an edge.

• The analysis incorporates statistical trends such as spreads and over/under outcomes, highlighting the strategic considerations bettors should account for based on past performances and game dynamics.

• The first rule about sports betting is to always bet within your means, the second is to believe what you see. Meaning teams reveal their identity and character every time they play.

• But it’s hard to believe what we saw last night with the Pacers and Cavaliers. What a comeback by the Pacers, and I hope you had Indiana and the points like I did.

• Wednesday brings us a pair of Game 2s where the home team was upset in Game 1. What we saw in Game 1 helps us determine the play for Game 2.

• Knicks at Celtics Game 2 Odds

  Boston is 20-0 this season in games after a home loss. Of course, not many of us picked Boston to lose Game 1 against the Knicks, but here we are.

• The last two games between these two teams have both gone to overtime. In the playoffs (it’s time to move on from the regular season stats), New York is 5-2 against the spread and Boston is 3-3.

• In Game 1, the Celtics were laying 8.5 points. Even though they lost, the spread is 10.5 tonight. Four of the last six games between these two teams have hit the over. Prop bet alert - OG Anunoby has 22 points or more in eight of his last nine road games.

• Knicks at Celtics Game 2 Prediction

  What I saw in Game 1 was a Celtic team determined to shoot 3s no matter what. And it cost them. Boston missed an NBA playoff record 45 threes and blew a 20-point lead in the second half, letting the Knicks rally for an overtime win. In the NBA today, threes attempted and made are the most important stat.

• Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby each had 29 points, and it was New York who made more threes than Boston in Game 1. Boston was also hurt when Kristaps Porzingis went out with an illness. He always plays well against his old team.

• What I see happening tonight is Boston regressing to the mean from 3-point range and shooting much better. But the spread is too high for me. I think it will be close.

• The Pick: New York +10.5 (-110 at FanDuel)

• Nuggets at Thunder Game 2 Odds

  Denver is getting 11 or 11.5 points for Game 2. Not much respect after their dramatic comeback to win Game 1. The Nuggets are 4-3-1 against the spread in the playoffs, and Oklahoma City is 2-3.

• The underdog has won four of the last five games between these two teams. Denver is 13-13 as underdogs this season. Oklahoma City has only lost back-to-back games twice in the regular season. Three of the last five meetings have hit the over.

• Nuggets at Thunder Game 2 Prediction

  What I saw in Game 1 was a Nuggets team that hung around until the fourth quarter and then went on a big run. NBA basketball in 2025 is about three-point shooting and runs. Just like anything else, you want to be at your best when it matters the most.

• Russell Westbrook has become one of the biggest storylines in the playoffs. He’s played well for Denver off the bench. In his last four games, he’s averaged 17.2 points, and the total for him tonight is only around 12 (prop bet alert).

• I still see OKC as the much better team, and I think Denver is content with one win on the road. I think the Nuggets hang around tonight, but it’s the Thunder who pull away late.

• The Pick: Thunder -11 (-110 at Caesars)