Both the Nuggets and the Celtics managed to keep their series alive after going victoriously through must-win games. The Nuggets pushed the series to Game 7, but will have to try to deliver a decisive blow on the road, where they are arguably much weaker. The two MVP candidates, SGA and Nikola Jokic, are both playing like world-beaters, so we can expect a thriller ending to the series in the 405.
Meanwhile, the Celtics have an impossible task in front of them and are going to have to try to do it without Jayson Tatum. The Celtics’ superstar suffered a ruptured Achilles and is set to miss the entirety of the preseason. The Celtics managed to stay alive in the series by extending it to Game 6. But the MSG is not a welcoming place for the Boys in Green, so they will have to give it their all if they want another miracle to happen.
For all of your betting pleasure, we have the best picks for these two games and a stellar weekend ahead of us.
| Game | Date | Tip | Alternative bet |
| Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks | Friday, May 16 | Celtics to Cover the Spread | Under on Points |
| Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder | Sunday, May 18 | Thunder to Cover the Spread | Over on Points |
*Sports betting carries inherent risks, and outcomes can be unpredictable. The recommendations offered here are based on current data and analysis but should not be viewed as guarantees of success.
With only two NBA quarterfinal matchups remaining, you can complete your parlay betslip with a few baseball games. It’s an exciting weekend, as the MLB is hosting its first-ever Rivalry Weekend – and our experts have picks ready for that, too.
Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks – Celtics to Cover the Spread 3m13
The Boston Celtics face elimination as they head to Madison Square Garden for Game 6 against the New York Knicks. Down 3-2 in the series, Boston showed impressive resilience in Game 5, winning 127-102 despite playing without their superstar Jayson Tatum.
The Celtics will continue without Tatum, who underwent surgery on May 13 after rupturing his right Achilles tendon in Game 4. This devastating injury has forced Boston to reshape its offensive strategy around Jaylen Brown and Derrick White, who stepped up magnificently in Game 5.
The Knicks enter as 2.5-point favorites with the over/under set at 211.5 points. This narrow spread reflects both Boston’s impressive Game 5 performance and home-court advantage for New York. Consider taking the Celtics +2.5 points. Without Tatum, Boston has rallied behind White and Brown, demonstrating they can still compete at a high level.
Look at the under on 211.5 total points. Elimination games often feature tighter defense and more cautious play. Additionally, both teams have dealt with injuries that might impact scoring efficiency.
Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder – Thunder to Cover the Spread 671c5x
The Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder face off in a pivotal Game 7 of their 2025 Western Conference semifinal series. The Nuggets forced this decisive game with a 119-107 win in Game 6, powered by Jamal Murray’s 25 points and a strong team effort, including a surprising 15-point contribution from Julian Strawther. The Thunder, who hold a 3-2 lead before this game, have been dominant at home all season with a 38-7 record and are favored by around 10 points in the latest betting lines.
Bettors should take the Oklahoma City Thunder to cover the spread (-7.5). Their strong home record and bench depth make them likely to maintain control in this high-stakes game.
Alternatively, consider betting on the total points to go over 212.5. Both teams have shown the ability to score in bunches, and with the series on the line, expect an aggressive pace and offensive output.
*Lines are from BetMGM Sportsbook and are subject to change.
