Down 0-2 in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, the Boston Celtics head to Madison Square Garden for a must-win Game 3 against the New York Knicks.
After back-to-back collapses at home, Boston needs more from its star player, especially in the scoring column. Jayson Tatum has dominated the glass in this series, and if his scoring trends upward, his combo line presents substantial value.
Here’s the featured Tatum prop bet on DraftKings Sportsbook for Game 3:
Best Jayson Tatum Prop Bet on DraftKings Sportsbook
Over 38.5 Points + Rebounds (-105)
Tatum has posted 18.0 points and 15.0 rebounds through the first two games of the series — below his usual scoring standard but elite on the boards. He averaged 26.8 points and 12.5 rebounds in six playoff games this year. The rebounding production gives this prop a solid floor, and a return to form as a scorer could push Tatum well past this 38.5 points and rebounds combined line. Remember, he’s taking 21.2 field-goal attempts per game this postseason and 21.0 per game against the Knicks.
His 28.6% shooting in the series has been uncharacteristic, especially considering he averaged 26.8 points per game during the regular season. If Tatum experiences any positive regression, particularly from three-point range, his chances of hitting this over jump significantly. He’s also averaging 40.3 minutes per game in the playoffs, ensuring the volume will be there.
The Knicks have executed well defensively, but the Celtics’ season may depend on Tatum finding his rhythm. Head coach Joe Mazzulla has stressed that Boston must execute better offensively, which likely means putting the ball in Tatum’s hands more often and in better spots. A fine-tuned strategy from the Celtics could lead to better results for Tatum.
“I think it’s both,” Mazzulla said. “I think it’s on us, I think it’s on me to call better plays, it’s on our guys to make better reads. And obviously, the Knicks are doing a good job defending us.”
If Tatum’s scoring returns anywhere near his regular-season averages while maintaining his elite rebounding pace, he’s in a great position to hit the over on this prop in what could be a career-defining performance.
