Opinion
3 min read

Can New York Knicks Outlast Boston Celtics at TD Garden in a Battle of Wits?

First Quarter


The New York Knicks have shown resilience throughout the playoff series against the Boston Celtics, but their performance in the first quarter will be crucial. In previous games, such as on May 12th, they started with a modest 28 points against the C's 39. The Knicks need to focus on tightening their defense early on to prevent the Green Machine from gaining an early lead. Their ability to control possessions and minimize turnovers will set the tone for this pivotal game.


NEW YORK, NY - May 10:    Jrue Holiday #4 of the Boston Celtics dribbles the ball during the game against the New York Knicks   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)

Second Quarter


As we move into the second quarter, it's essential for NYK to capitalize on their offensive opportunities. In past matchups, like Game 3 on May 10th where they scored only 26 points compared to BOS's impressive 35 in this period, it was evident that maintaining offensive momentum is key. The Knicks must leverage their bench strength and ensure that players like Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson are effectively supported by role players who can contribute significantly when called upon.


Third Quarter


The third quarter has often been a turning point for both teams. On May 7th during Game 2 at TD Garden, NYK managed an impressive comeback with a strong showing of teamwork and strategic plays that saw them scoring more than BOS in this segment. To replicate such success, they must focus on exploiting any defensive lapses by BOS while maintaining high shooting accuracy from both mid-range and beyond the arc.


NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 10: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics dribbles against the New York Knicks during the third quarter in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 10, 2025 in New York City. 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. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

Fourth Quarter


In what promises to be an intense fourth quarter showdown at TD Garden come May 19th at 8:00 PM EDT—broadcasted live via TNT—the Knicks' endurance will be tested against a formidable Celtics squad known for closing out games strongly. Historically speaking from recent encounters where NYK outscored BOS late into matches (as seen during Game 4), clutch performances by key players could very well determine if they can secure victory away from home turf.


For fans eager not just for another thrilling contest but also hopeful of seeing NYK advance further into playoffs—a win here would certainly bolster those aspirations! Tune-in or stream online through MAX; don't miss what might just become one unforgettable chapter within NBA history books!


NEW YORK, NY - May 10:    Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics dribbles the ball during the game against the New York Knicks  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)

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