Knicks Pull Off Thrilling Comeback Victory Over Celtics in Game 1
BOSTON — In a nail-biting finish on Monday, the New York Knicks overcame a 20-point deficit to claim a stunning victory against the Boston Celtics in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, winning 108-105 in overtime. The game’s most critical moment came with just three seconds remaining in the extra period when Knicks player Mikal Bridges intercepted a crucial inbound pass intended for Jaylen Brown, turning the tide for New York.
“I was just watching his eyes,” Bridges explained, drawing from his football background to make the decisive play. Head coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized the importance of making tough plays in playoff games, stating, “Your defense, your toughness, your teamwork, that’s paramount in a playoff game."
The resilience displayed by the Knicks was evident. After trailing 75-55 midway through the third quarter, the team kept their spirits high in a crucial huddle. Point guard Jalen Brunson, who scored 29 points, remarked, “We told each other, ‘Just keep believing, keep fighting, keep sticking together and keep chipping away.’”
The Celtics had appeared in control of the game, especially after Jayson Tatum’s strong performance put the Knicks in foul trouble. Mitchell Robinson was sent to the free-throw line multiple times but struggled to convert, further complicating the Knicks’ comeback efforts. However, the team remained focused, rallying together during a crucial point in the game.
As the Knicks began to chip away at the deficit, they finished the third quarter strong, closing with a 23-12 run to cut the Celtics’ lead to 84-75. Brunson was instrumental in this fightback, joined by OG Anunoby, who also contributed 29 points.
Throughout the game, every player stepped up, infusing energy into the team. Brunson praised Josh Hart’s relentless effort, stating, “The way he brings energy is contagious.” This energy propelled the Knicks back into the game and ultimately secured their victory.
In the fourth quarter, Anunoby stole the ball from Tatum, slamming it home for a dramatic game-tying dunk. The tension escalated as both teams battled for control; however, the score ended at 100-100 after missed opportunities from both sides in the closing moments.
Overtime did not slow the Knicks down. Anunoby, Bridges, and Towns combined for all eight of New York’s points, fending off attempts from the defending champions. After the hard-fought win, Bridges shared their mindset: “We’re going to keep fighting. It’s who we are.”
This victory marked the Celtics’ first playoff deficit since last season’s Eastern Conference Finals. Looking ahead to Game 2, the Knicks understand the challenges that lie ahead. Hart remarked, “We know that this series isn’t going to be easy; that’s a heck of a team.”
Brunson echoed the sentiment, pointing out the need to stay grounded. “Game 2, 0-0. We have to go out there and do the same thing. That’s our mindset. We’ve got to flush it as soon as possible.”
Even with their win, the Knicks recognized room for improvement. Coach Thibodeau expressed concern over the 19 offensive rebounds allowed and Anunoby acknowledged that there’s still work to do on the defensive end. Towns mentioned that the Celtics missed a significant number of three-point shots, which could change in future games.
The Knicks are keenly aware that their win was not a perfect representation of their capabilities. Though the process for the Celtics included attacking the paint early and opening the offense later, it also resulted in too many three-pointers that didn’t connect.
Moving forward, the Knicks want to focus on their strengths: toughness, teamwork, and a shared commitment to one another. Towns summed it up well: “This is a close-knit group, and we know we’re all we got. Regardless of how the game’s playing out, we’re playing for each other.”
Brunson added, “As long as we stick together, anything is possible.” And with this resilient mindset, the Knicks look to carry their momentum into Game 2 against the Celtics.
