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Did the Knicks' Defense Falter Against the Celtics at Madison Square Garden?

In a pivotal playoff matchup, the New York Knicks faced off against the Boston Celtics at Madison Square Garden. The game ended with a score of 115-93 in favor of the Celtics. This result brought the Knicks to a record of 51-31, while the Celtics improved to 61-21. The game was marked by intense competition and strategic plays from both sides.


NEW YORK, NY - MAY 10: Precious Achiuwa #5 of the New York Knicks shoots the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics  during Round Two Game Three of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on May 10, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE  (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)

Knicks' Offensive Struggles


The Knicks struggled offensively throughout much of the game, which was evident in their shooting percentages. They managed to convert only 40 percent of their field goal attempts and were particularly challenged beyond the arc, hitting just 20 percent of their three-point shots. Jalen Brunson emerged as a key player for New York, contributing significantly with 27 points and seven assists. Despite his efforts, Brunson's performance could not lift his team past Boston's formidable defense.


Karl-Anthony Towns also made notable contributions for New York with an impressive double-double performance—scoring 21 points and grabbing 15 rebounds. However, Towns faced challenges in efficiency as he shot only 28 percent from the field overall.


NEW YORK, NY - May 10:    Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks dribbles the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics  during Round 2 Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs  on May 10, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE  (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Knicks found some success inside with points in paint totaling up to 48 but were unable to capitalize on fast-break opportunities effectively, scoring only eight fast-break points compared to Boston’s more efficient transition play.


Celtics' Dominant Performance


On the other side of court action stood Boston’s Green Machine who executed their gameplay plan effectively across all quarters starting strong by scoring an impressive opening quarter tallying up at thirty-six points alone! Their offensive prowess continued into subsequent quarters maintaining consistent pressure against any defensive adjustments attempted by New York throughout this contest.


NEW YORK, NY - May 10:    OG Anunoby #8 of the New York Knicks dunks the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics  during Round 2 Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs  on May 10, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE  (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

Boston showcased superior shooting accuracy converting fifty percent from beyond-the-arc while maintaining solid free throw consistency hitting eighty-eight percent when sent linewardly during fouls drawn situations; these factors contributed heavily towards securing victory over home-court advantage held previously within MSG walls!


Jayson Tatum led charge alongside Jaylen Brown forming dynamic duo whose combined efforts accounted majority scoring output seen tonight; together they orchestrated seamless ball movement resulting twenty-three total assists distributed amongst teammates further amplifying collective team effort displayed here today!


Defensively speaking: C’s proved resilient force limiting opponent chances through effective rebounding strategies accumulating fifty boards collectively (including twelve offensive) thereby denying second-chance opportunities often crucial swing momentum shifts games such high stakes nature playoffs entail inherently so...


Looking Ahead


As both teams continue navigating postseason journey ahead next scheduled encounter between these fierce rivals set take place once again inside iconic confines Madison Square Garden come May twelfth tip-off slated begin promptly half-past seven evening Eastern Daylight Time broadcast live nationally via ESPN network ensuring fans nationwide opportunity witness firsthand unfolding drama anticipation builds surrounding potential outcomes awaiting eagerly anticipated rematch looming horizon soon enough indeed...


Stay tuned for more updates regarding ongoing developments surrounding this exciting playoff series involving your beloved Knickerbockers! Be sure share article friends fellow enthusiasts alike help spread word about latest happenings around league today!

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