As the initial phase of the NBA playoffs comes to a close, the Eastern Conference semifinals lineup is now set.

The Knicks executed a thrilling comeback in Game 6, overcoming the Pistons with a clutch 3-pointer from Jalen Brunson, clinching the series 4-2 after trailing by seven points. This series was unique as it witnessed the visiting team triumph in the last five games, despite the Pistons leading in all six.

The Knicks are set to confront the reigning champions, the Boston Celtics, starting on Monday, with sportsbooks indicating the Knicks as underdogs at 6-1 odds.

Historically, this matchup favored the Celtics, as they dominated the regular season games against the Knicks, with an average winning margin of 16.3 points.

On the other end, the victorious team will clash with either the Indiana Pacers or the Cleveland Cavaliers, another fierce semifinal in the Eastern Conference.

Oddsmakers have placed heavy favor on the Cavaliers, similar to the Celtics. A mere $5 wager on the Cavaliers winning would yield just $1 in profit. This raises some intrigue for Pacers fans since Indiana finished the regular season against the Cavs with a 3-1 record; however, it is essential to note that many key Cavaliers players were rested during those games.

Excitement is guaranteed as both teams favor a high-paced play style, with the Cavs averaging 122.1 points per game (leading the league) and the Pacers scoring 117.4 points (ranking seventh).

Critical Insights

• The Pacers might struggle due to size discrepancies against the Cavaliers, who are statistically stronger.
• A betting strategy could involve placing a wager on Cavaliers to win the series in six games or fewer at the DraftKings Sportsbook or considering the odds for a Cavaliers victory in five games.

In summary, despite their substantial record, the Cavaliers remain underrated in the playoff mix, and the upcoming games against the Pacers promise to be intense.