Knicks Overcome 20-Point Deficit to Stun Celtics in Game 1
The New York Knicks showcased resilience and teamwork in their thrilling 108-105 overtime victory against the Boston Celtics in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. The win came despite trailing by as much as 20 points in the third quarter, marking a significant statement in the series opener.
Key Performances Drive Knicks’ Comeback
Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby were instrumental in the Knicks’ comeback, each scoring 29 points. Brunson, who was recently named Clutch Player of the Year, led the charge with 11 consecutive points late in the fourth quarter. Anunoby contributed on both ends of the court, including a game-tying dunk midway through the fourth quarter.
“We told each other, ‘Just keep believing, keep fighting, keep sticking together and keep chipping away,’” Brunson said after the game. “There wasn’t going to be a 20-point shot to come back. We just had to keep chipping away possession by possession.”
Mikal Bridges’ Defensive Heroics Seal the Win
The game’s defining moment came in the final seconds of overtime. With the Celtics trailing by three and three seconds remaining, Mikal Bridges intercepted an inbound pass intended for Jaylen Brown, effectively securing the victory for New York. “I was just watching his eyes,” Bridges said. “I’m a football guy.”
Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau praised Bridges’ effort, stating, “Those are big-time toughness plays. It’s a 50-50 ball, and just go get it. That’s what he did.”
Boston’s Shooting Woes
The Celtics struggled mightily from beyond the arc, missing 45 of their 60 three-point attempts. Despite strong performances from Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, who each scored 23 points, Boston’s inability to convert long-range shots proved costly.
“In those spots where they have momentum, we can’t just fire up threes,” Brown admitted. “I felt like we just settled in the second half a lot.”
Josh Hart and Team Effort Propel Knicks
Josh Hart embodied the Knicks’ relentless spirit, contributing 45 minutes of high-energy play. “He’s going to find a way to run around and do things,” Brunson said of Hart. “The way he brings energy is contagious. We feed off his energy, and it propelled us to come back from down 20.”
Karl-Anthony Towns also played a pivotal role, adding 14 points and 13 rebounds. His defensive presence, alongside Mitchell Robinson, helped the Knicks control the paint and limit Boston’s second-chance opportunities.
Looking Ahead to Game 2
Despite the win, the Knicks remain focused on improving. Thibodeau expressed dissatisfaction with the 19 offensive rebounds allowed, emphasizing the need for better defensive execution. “We can get even better on defense,” Anunoby added.
The Celtics, meanwhile, are determined to bounce back. Head coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged the impact of Kristaps Porzingis’ absence due to illness but refused to use it as an excuse. “We had plenty of opportunities,” Mazzulla said. “Hopefully he’s ready for Game 2.”
Game 2 is set for Wednesday night, with the Knicks aiming to build on their momentum and the Celtics looking to even the series.
Source: Associated Press, NBA.com