Knicks Overcome Celtics with Remarkable Fourth-Quarter Push

BOSTON: The New York Knicks secured a 91-90 victory against the Boston Celtics on Wednesday at TD Garden. Josh Hart’s performance propelled the Knicks to a 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinal series.

The Celtics seemed to be in command, boasting a 20-point advantage at 73-53 with just over 14 minutes left in the second game. Nevertheless, the Knicks orchestrated an impressive turnaround, denying Boston any points for over eight minutes in the final quarter.

Jalen Brunson successfully made two crucial free throws with approximately 12.7 seconds remaining, solidifying New York’s triumph.

“It’s about identifying avenues for achieving victory,” stated Knicks forward Mikal Bridges.

Hart concluded the game with 23 points, six rebounds, and three assists, while Karl-Anthony Towns recorded a double-double, amassing 21 points and securing 17 rebounds, along with one assist.

Boston initiated the game with a 24-13 lead after the initial quarter and sustained a 50-41 lead at the half. However, the Knicks concluded the game with a notable 23-6 surge.

“As we return home, we are aware of the opportunity that awaits us. Our focus must remain unwavering,” Brunson commented following the victory.

For the Celtics, Derrick White and Jaylen Brown each scored 20 points. White also had nine rebounds and five assists, and Brown added six rebounds and one assist, yet their efforts were insufficient.

Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged the Knicks’ determination and noted his team’s inability to exploit important opportunities.

“They executed the plays necessary for the win,” Mazzulla noted. “We positioned ourselves to achieve that but fell short in our execution during the crucial moments.”

“We must evaluate areas for improvement and strive for a comprehensive 48-minute performance. It will be challenging, but that is the essence of the task. We need to recover, travel, and discover a method to secure a win.”

Game Three of the series is scheduled for Saturday.