In a dramatic Game 1 showdown of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, the New York Knicks pulled off a remarkable comeback to defeat the Boston Celtics 108-105 in overtime on Monday night (May 5, U.S. time). Despite trailing by as many as 20 points, the Knicks clawed their way back into the contest, ultimately snatching the victory from the stunned Celtics at TD Garden.
The Celtics had control for much of the first half and early third quarter, but their cold shooting from beyond the arc proved costly. Boston attempted 60 three-pointers and made only 15 — a dismal 25% conversion rate. Their 45 missed threes set a new NBA playoff record for most failed three-point attempts in a single game, eclipsing the previous record held by the Timberwolves.
Brunson, Anunoby Lead Knicks’ Resurgence
Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby were the offensive catalysts for New York, each contributing 29 points. Brunson was a steady presence at point guard, navigating tough Celtics defense, while Anunoby delivered on both ends, hitting key shots and locking down on defense. Karl-Anthony Towns added a strong double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds, giving the Knicks a much-needed interior presence.
The defining moment of the night came in the final seconds of overtime when Mikal Bridges made a clutch defensive play, stripping the ball from Jaylen Brown and sealing the win for New York. It was a poetic finish for the Knicks, who had lost all four regular-season matchups against Boston this year and looked outmatched early in the game.
Celtics Collapse Despite Balanced Scoring
Boston was led by its star duo Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, who each tallied 23 points. However, Brown struggled from deep, connecting on just 1 of his 10 three-point attempts. That lone make came late in overtime, cutting the deficit to 108-105, but it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.
Derrick White had a solid night with 19 points and 11 rebounds, providing energy on both ends of the court. Jrue Holiday, returning from a hamstring injury, logged 39 minutes and put up 16 points. Unfortunately for Boston, they lost big man Kristaps Porzingis to illness after just 13 minutes of play. His absence left a noticeable void, particularly on defense and floor spacing.
“Kristaps being out really changed the dynamics of our game plan,” head coach Joe Mazzulla said after the game. “We’re hopeful he can recover in time for Game 2.”
Knicks Show Grit in Second-Half Comeback
The turning point came midway through the third quarter. With the Celtics up by 20, the Knicks refused to go away. They tightened up their defense, forced turnovers, and gradually chipped away at Boston’s lead. By the start of the fourth, New York had seized the momentum.
The Knicks tied the game late in regulation and briefly held the lead, showcasing their resilience and ability to capitalize on Boston’s shooting woes. Overtime belonged to them, starting with a three-point play from Anunoby and a triple from Bridges to extend the lead to 106-100. Though Boston responded with Brown’s late triple, they failed to generate a clean look in the final seconds.
A Statement Win for New York
This win marks a significant turnaround for the Knicks, who were previously dominated by Boston in the regular season. It also underscores the unpredictability and intensity of playoff basketball. With Game 2 looming, the Celtics will have to regroup quickly and hope for Porzingis’ return, while the Knicks look to maintain their momentum and shock the East’s top seed once more.
Game 2 will be played again at TD Garden, with tip-off set for Wednesday evening.
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