The New York Knicks finally broke their curse against the Boston Celtics. After four regular-season losses, they claimed Game 1 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series in dramatic style.
Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby both starred as the Knicks overcame a 20-point deficit. Boston had control early on but collapsed late, leaving home fans stunned.
Celtics Take Early Control But Struggle After Halftime
Boston (3.25) looked dominant in the first half. The defending NBA champions built a massive 75-55 lead midway through the third quarter. At that point, it seemed like another routine win against their long-time rivals.
However, the Knicks refused to give in. Despite the scoreboard pressure, they remained focused and united. Their 20-9 run to end the third quarter gave them a fighting chance entering the final period.
Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown each scored 23 points for the Celtics. Yet, their shooting woes told a different story. Boston attempted 60 three-pointers but made just 15 — a playoff record for most misses beyond the arc.
Knicks Turn Momentum With Relentless Fight
New York’s belief never wavered. Brunson and Anunoby spearheaded the fightback with 29 points apiece. Karl-Anthony Towns also chipped in with a double-double, scoring 14 points and grabbing 13 rebounds.
The Knicks opened the fourth quarter with eight unanswered points. Soon after, Anunoby made a steal and finished with a dunk to level the score at 86. Suddenly, it was anyone’s game.
There were three lead changes and three ties in the closing minutes of regulation. A key moment came when Anunoby knocked down a clutch three-pointer to put the Knicks back in front. Jrue Holiday responded for Boston, tying the score again and forcing overtime.
Anunoby and Bridges Seal It In Extra Time
In overtime, New York took control early. Anunoby completed a three-point play before Mikal Bridges hit a crucial shot from beyond the arc. That stretch gave the Knicks a 106-100 advantage.
Brown finally made a three-pointer with just over a minute left, cutting the lead to 108-105. It was his only successful three in 10 attempts. Boston had one final chance to tie the game.
After a timeout with three seconds left, Brown received the inbounds pass. But Bridges stepped up once more. He stripped the ball clean to secure a famous win for New York.
Boston’s Three-Point Dependence Proves Costly
The Celtics’ strategy backfired badly. They took 49 shots in the second half and overtime, with 37 of those coming from behind the arc. Unfortunately for them, they converted just 10 of those attempts.
Head coach Joe Mazzulla admitted the absence of Kristaps Porzingis hurt their balance. The big man played only 13 minutes due to illness and did not return after halftime. Nevertheless, Mazzulla refused to make excuses, pointing out that Boston had several opportunities to win.
Derrick White added 19 points and 11 rebounds for the hosts. Holiday, returning from a hamstring injury, contributed 16 points in 39 minutes. But collectively, Boston could not find a rhythm in the closing stages.
A Crushing Result For Celtics Fans and Bettors
This result was a major shock, particularly given how dominant the Celtics had been against the Knicks all season. For online sports betting fans, a 20-point comeback by New York would have seemed like a long shot. Many would have backed Boston to win comfortably, especially after building such a commanding lead.
Instead, the Knicks delivered one of their best performances of the year. Their persistence and teamwork were rewarded most dramatically. For the Celtics, it was a bitter lesson in composure and decision-making.
Knicks Celebrate, But It’s Just the Start
Game 2 takes place at 1 AM SAST on Thursday. With the Knicks holding a 1-0 lead and momentum on their side, all eyes will be on how Boston responds. Will the champions bounce back, or are New York about to write a new chapter in their playoff story?
