Mon May 05 23:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Celtics at Full Strength for Knicks Playoff Showdown; Sweep or Seven-Game Series? ESPN Analyst Weighs In
**BOSTON, MA –** The Boston Celtics are expected to be at full strength for their Eastern Conference Semifinal series opener against the New York Knicks on Monday night. The return of guard Jrue Holiday, who has recovered from a strained right hamstring, is a significant boost for the Celtics. Holiday, along with Jaylen Brown (who has overcome a right knee injury), was notably absent from Sunday’s injury report.
This marks Holiday’s first absence from the injury report since he missed the final three games of the Celtics’ first-round victory over the Orlando Magic. Coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed Holiday participated fully in Saturday’s practice, suggesting he’s ready for game action.
The Celtics’ improved health presents a formidable challenge for the Knicks. ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith has already weighed in on the series’ potential trajectory, analyzing whether a Knicks sweep or a full seven-game series is more probable (see accompanying video). The highly anticipated matchup is set to begin Monday evening.
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