The NBA playoffs are always packed with drama, but few matchups have delivered thrills quite like the recent Celtics vs Knicks series. As the two storied franchises clash in the Eastern Conference semifinals, fans have witnessed back-to-back games full of giant momentum swings, star performances, and, unfortunately for Boston, record-setting collapses.
In Game 2, New York staged yet another stunning comeback, overcoming a 20-point deficit for the second consecutive game. The official ESPN game summary highlights just how close the contest was. The Knicks clinched a 91-90 win at TD Garden, seizing a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.
Josh Hart emerged as the leading scorer for the Knicks with 23 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns posted an impressive double-double. Mikal Bridges, silent for much of the game, erupted for 14 points in the fourth quarter. His energy swung the momentum, propelling New York past Boston in crunch time.
Jalen Brunson’s composure was key. He sank two crucial free throws with just 12.7 seconds remaining, giving the Knicks their first lead in the dying moments. Coach Tom Thibodeau praised his squad, noting, "We started slowly, got in a big hole, dug our way out and then guys made a lot of tough plays." (BBC Sport).
Once again, the Celtics built what appeared to be a comfortable lead, only to see it evaporate late. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown each put up solid numbers, but the team shot just 5-for-24 in the final quarter. Boston has now become the first team in NBA history to lose two playoff games after leading by at least 20 points in each.
According to a detailed recap from NBC Sports Boston, missed opportunities and cold shooting haunted the Celtics in both games. The fourth quarter of Game 2 saw Boston unable to hit vital shots, while the Knicks thrived under pressure.
Coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged the team’s struggles: "We put ourselves in position, but we just didn’t make the plays." Celtics fans, hoping to see a response in New York, will be eager for answers as the series heads to Madison Square Garden.
As the series shifts to New York, the Celtics are in a must-win situation. Momentum is with the Knicks, but the series is far from over. Previous matchups have shown that anything can happen when these teams meet. Can Boston regroup and stage a comeback of their own, or will New York seize full control?
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The Celtics vs Knicks playoff battle is adding unforgettable chapters to NBA postseason lore. With intense finishes and resilient performances, this series has proven why the NBA playoffs are must-watch. Stay tuned as the drama continues at Madison Square Garden—will the Celtics find redemption, or will the Knicks' magical run persist?