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Boston Celtics

Knicks Suffer Blowout Loss to Celtics in Game 5, Series Heads to Game 6

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The New York Knicks had a chance to put the Boston Celtics away in the Eastern Conference semifinals, but they were defeated 127-102 in Game 5 on Wednesday night at TD Garden. The Celtics, who were without star Jayson Tatum due to a torn right Achilles tendon, found a way to win despite a double-digit second-half deficit. The Knicks struggled to shoot, with a 35.8 percent field goal percentage, and their defense was unable to keep up with the Celtics' 52.4 percent field goal percentage.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Knicks' 35.8 percent field goal percentage was their lowest of the series, and it hindered their chances of a comeback.
  • The Celtics' 52.4 percent field goal percentage and 44.9 percent three-point shooting were key factors in their win.
  • Derrick White led the Celtics with 34 points, and Jaylen Brown added 26 points, eight rebounds, and 12 assists.
  • Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby struggled for the Knicks, combining for just 25 points and 18 rebounds.
  • Josh Hart had a tough, physical game with 24 points, seven rebounds, and two assists, despite being elbowed in the face in the first quarter.
  • The Celtics' ability to adapt without Jayson Tatum was a crucial factor in their win, as they got big performances from White and Brown.
  • The Knicks' need for more from their stars, particularly Towns and Anunoby, was evident in their loss.
  • Luke Kornet, a former Knicks center, had an impressive game for the Celtics with seven blocks and 10 points.

Statistics:

  • The Celtics shot 52.4 percent from the field in Game 5, their highest percentage of the season.
  • The Knicks were outscored 32-17 in the third quarter, which proved to be a turning point in the game.
  • Derrick White hit 9-of-16 shots from the field and 7-of-13 three-pointers to lead the Celtics.
  • Josh Hart finished with 24 points and seven rebounds, despite being injured in the first quarter.
  • The Celtics were 22-49 (44.9 percent) from three-point range in Game 5.
  • The Knicks were led in scoring by Karl-Anthony Towns with 19 points.

Sources:

  • NorthJersey.com - "Knicks suffer blowout loss to Celtics in Game 5, series heads to Game 6"

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