In a thrilling Eastern Conference semifinal, the New York Knicks rallied to beat the Boston Celtics 91-90, taking a 2-0 series lead. For the second straight game, the Knicks overcame a significant deficit, with Mikal Bridges once again making a crucial game-ending steal to secure the victory. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks’ scoring with 17 points and crucial free throws that put them ahead in the closing moments. Bridges scored all 14 of his points in the fourth quarter, while Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 23 and 21 points, respectively.
The Celtics struggled offensively, with Jayson Tatum limited to just 13 points on poor shooting, while Jaylen Brown and Derrick White each scored 20. Boston’s shooting woes were evident, as they went 10 for 40 from three-point range and endured long stretches without scoring. After leading comfortably in the third quarter, they failed to secure the game, missing 13 consecutive attempts at one point.
Kristaps Porzingis, returning from illness, contributed modestly with eight points off the bench. The Knicks, who had swept the Celtics during the regular season, capitalized on defensive lapses and clutch performances to extend their surprising playoff run. Brunson hinted that the team has more potential to unlock, indicating they haven’t fully tapped into their capabilities yet.
With Game 3 approaching, the Knicks are poised to capitalize on their momentum, while the Celtics are under pressure to respond after a disappointing start to the series.
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