Knicks Come from Behind to Take 3-1 Lead over Celtics in NBA Eastern Conference Semi-final Series

Strategic Insights -

The New York Knicks used a third-quarter rally to erase a 14-point deficit, securing a 121-113 victory over the Boston Celtics in game four of the best-of-seven series. The Knicks now hold a three-games-to-one advantage in the series, with the Celtics facing a daunting task to win three straight games without the services of injured All-Star Jayson Tatum.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Knicks rallied from a 14-point deficit in the third quarter, led by a 14-0 spurt sparked by key baskets from Jaylen Brunson, Karl Anthony-Towns, and Mikal Bridges.
  • Jalen Brunson had a stellar performance, scoring 39 points, 12 assists, and five rebounds, while Mikal Bridges contributed 23 points, seven rebounds, and four steals.
  • OG Anunoby also played a crucial role, scoring 20 points and providing tough defense, helping the Knicks maintain their momentum after Tatum's injury.
  • Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged the team's struggle to maintain their lead, citing their inability to disrupt the Knicks' defensive pressure and maintain their offensive rhythm.
  • The Knicks' win breaks the Celtics' habit of blowing double-digit leads in crucial games, with New York now holding a three-game advantage in the series.
  • The Knicks will look to end the Celtics' quest for their 19th NBA title in game five, with Tatum's injury significantly impacting the team's chances.

Statistics:

  • The Knicks outscored the Celtics 40-27 in the third quarter, turning the tide of the game in their favor.
  • Jayson Tatum's 42 points in game four tied him with Celtics Hall of Famers Larry Bird and John Havlicek for the most 40-point postseason games in franchise history.
  • Karl Anthony-Towns and OG Anunoby each played key roles in the Knicks' win, with 23 points and 11 rebounds for Towns, and 20 points and tough defense for Anunoby.
  • The Celtics are 1-4 in clutch time in this year's NBA playoffs, and NBA-best 24-11 in the regular season.
  • The Knicks will face a tough challenge in game five, having won only two games in the series without their injured star Jayson Tatum.

Sources:

  • Bay State Banner (photographic credits: Vincent Carchietta, NBA playoffs)
  • The New York Knicks' game four press release
  • ESPN NBA statistics
  • Boston Celtics' official website, sports.news frontier