They eventually lost 127-102, leaving their hopes for a championship in serious doubt. The Knicks came out hot and jumped out to a comfortable lead at first. They collapsed after halftime, particularly in the third quarter, a period during which their opponents scored 15 points more than them on average. With this loss, the Knicks now find themselves leading the series 3-2. A highly anticipated Game 6 looms on Friday at Madison Square Garden!
Josh Hart was the Knicks’ high scorer with 24 points. The Celtics proved their depth and resilience by battling back in the contest. They did this primarily off the back of star player Jayson Tatum, who was lost to a ruptured right Achilles tendon in Game 4. Derrick White and Jaylen Brown really rose to the occasion, scoring 34 and 32 points respectively. Brown notched 12 assists and 8 rebounds, showcasing his playmaking and versatility.
Luke Kornet upgraded his life last season. He gave one of his finest playoff performances, scoring 10 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 huge blocks. The Celtics owned the second half, defeating the Knicks by 25 points. White’s hot streak included two quick three-pointers that contributed to a 13-point run, emphasizing Boston’s offensive capabilities.
Those numbers were a direct indication of how well the Celtics executed offensively that night. They poured in nearly double the Knicks’ three-point output. They made about 17 more field goals percent better from the field. This blistering shooting was enough to be the difference maker as they took advantage of their chances to score.
“That third quarter was terrible. From the top down, it was a terrible quarter,” said Hart, reflecting on the pivotal moments that shifted momentum in favor of Boston.
Tom Thibodeau, head coach of the Knicks, acknowledged that his team could not afford to lose focus after taking an early lead.
We did have a lead early. Didn’t play physical with the lead. Came out on fire to open the third. Turned the ball over on four straight possessions to start that half. Can’t afford to do that,” Thibodeau stated.
“Despite the absence of Tatum, Jalen Brunson emphasized that the Celtics are more than capable of performing well without their star player. ‘No, not at all. Yes, they are missing a big piece. They are a well-oiled machine that has been in situations where they’ve played without him, and they’ve played well,’ he remarked.”
The Rangers had dealt yet another loss to the Knicks in their still raging NYC sports civil war. They haven’t closed out a playoff series at home since 1999. Here’s what they need to do to win Game 6. The competition is fierce as they look to make it past the first round!
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