February 8, 2026, promises a thrilling night of NBA action as some of the league's top teams clash in pivotal matchups. The New York Knicks head to TD Garden to face the Boston Celtics, a classic rivalry that never fails to deliver drama and intensity. Meanwhile, the Miami Heat aim to extend their winning streak against the Washington Wizards, and the Los Angeles Clippers visit the Minnesota Timberwolves in a battle of star-studded rosters.

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New York Knicks at Boston Celtics

In a matchup that epitomizes the fierce competition of the Eastern Conference, the New York Knicks take on the Boston Celtics. With our GameSim prediction slightly favoring the Celtics, who have a 55% chance to win, this game is not to be missed. Expect fireworks from Jaylen Brown, projected to drop 29.3 points along with 6.5 rebounds and 4.4 assists. On the Knicks side, Jalen Brunson is set to lead with 24.6 points and 4.9 assists, while Karl-Anthony Towns is expected to dominate the boards with 12.4 rebounds.

The Celtics, carrying a predicted score advantage of 116.7 to 112.6, will look to leverage their home court and depth, including contributions from Nikola Vucevic and Derrick White. The question remains: can the Knicks' trio of Brunson, Towns, and OG Anunoby, who are collectively averaging over 60 points per game, overcome the Boston fortress?

Miami Heat at Washington Wizards

The Miami Heat are on a roll and head into Washington as favorites, with a significant 65% chance of victory according to our simulated predictions. Miami's dynamic duo of Norman Powell and Bam Adebayo are expected to fuel the offense, combining for over 44 points. Meanwhile, the Wizards will rely heavily on Alex Sarr, who is projected to notch a double-double with 22 points and 10.5 rebounds.

Despite the Wizards' home court, the Heat's superior depth and firepower, including contributions from Jaime Jaquez Jr., may prove overwhelming. With a predicted score of 121.1 to 109.2 in favor of Miami, the Wizards will need a stellar performance from their key players to pull off an upset.

Los Angeles Clippers at Minnesota Timberwolves

The night concludes with a high-octane showdown as the Los Angeles Clippers visit the Minnesota Timberwolves. Our GameSim model gives the Timberwolves a commanding 65% probability to win, fueled by an expected 31.2-point performance from Anthony Edwards. With Kawhi Leonard countering for the Clippers with a projected 30.8 points and 8.1 rebounds, this game promises to be a highlight reel from start to finish.

The Timberwolves, featuring a strong supporting cast including Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo, are predicted to win with a score of 125.5 to 113.4. Can the Clippers' star power tilt the scales, or will the Timberwolves' home advantage and depth seal the deal?

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