Executive Summary
- The New York Knicks defeated the Boston Celtics 91-90 in Game 2, securing a 2-0 series lead in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
- For the second straight game, the Knicks rallied from a 20-point deficit, becoming the first team in NBA playoff history to achieve this feat in consecutive games.
- Mikal Bridges played a crucial role in the Knicks' victory, scoring 14 points in the fourth quarter and sealing the win with a game-winning steal on Jayson Tatum.
Event Overview
The New York Knicks have shocked the NBA world by taking a 2-0 series lead over the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. In Game 2, held in Boston, the Knicks once again demonstrated their resilience, overcoming a 20-point third-quarter deficit to secure a narrow 91-90 victory. Mikal Bridges' outstanding fourth-quarter performance and defensive play proved decisive, while the Celtics struggled offensively in the final period. This marks the first playoff matchup between the two teams since 2013, intensifying the rivalry.
Media Coverage Comparison
Source | Key Angle / Focus | Unique Details Mentioned | Tone |
---|---|---|---|
NBA.com | Knicks' improbable comeback and key performances | Highlights the Knicks' struggles in the first quarter, Kristaps Porziņģis' limited role due to illness, and the Celtics' offensive struggles in the fourth quarter. | Analytical and descriptive |
CBSSports.com | Series odds shifting in favor of the Knicks | Notes the Celtics' missed 3-pointers and provides the series schedule and odds, indicating a shift in expectations towards the Knicks. | Informative and predictive |
ESPN | Game 2 recap with key stats and highlights | Provides a box score, play-by-play details, and video highlights, emphasizing the Knicks' comeback and individual player performances. | Detailed and statistical |
Yahoo Sports | Knicks' historical comeback and Celtics' collapse | Emphasizes the historical significance of the Knicks' consecutive 20-point comebacks and the Celtics' inability to maintain their lead, including Mazzulla's explanation for not calling a timeout. | Narrative and dramatic |
Key Details & Data Points
- What: The New York Knicks defeated the Boston Celtics in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, completing a 20-point comeback to take a 2-0 series lead.
- Who: Key players include Mikal Bridges, Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Karl-Anthony Towns for the Knicks; Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White for the Celtics. Coaches Tom Thibodeau (Knicks) and Joe Mazzulla (Celtics) are also central figures.
- When: Game 2 took place on May 7, 2025. Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. ET.
- Where: Game 2 was held at TD Garden in Boston. Game 3 will be at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Key Statistics:
- Knicks' fourth-quarter scoring: 30 points, fueled by Mikal Bridges' 14 points.
- Celtics' fourth-quarter struggles: 17 points, shooting 11-for-53 (21%) in the fourth quarter and overtime combined over the two games.
- Josh Hart's performance: 23 points on 9-for-15 shooting in Game 2.
Analysis & Context
The Knicks' consecutive comebacks highlight their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. Mikal Bridges' emergence as a clutch player is a significant development. The Celtics' struggles, particularly their inability to hold leads and their poor shooting in critical moments, raise concerns about their ability to compete in the series. Coach Mazzulla's decision-making, specifically regarding timeouts, is under scrutiny. The series now shifts to New York, where the Knicks will look to capitalize on their momentum.
Notable Quotes
That’s the playoffs. You gotta keep fighting. Every possession matters and you got to play all 48 minutes.
We just weren’t able to convert in the fourth quarter. That’s what it came down to. Our defense, I thought, was great. We had physicality, we had energy on defense. Our offense let us down.
Had one [timeout] left, got a good look on the exact same play 20 seconds later. Tried to execute the exact same thing, they did a better job of their lower pick-up point and we weren't able to get the advantage that we had on the last Tatum dunk ... Brunson had action there, just didn't execute.
Conclusion
The New York Knicks have seized a commanding 2-0 series lead against the Boston Celtics, stunning the defending champions with consecutive come-from-behind victories. Mikal Bridges' clutch defensive plays, including game-sealing steals in both contests, have been pivotal, overshadowing his shooting struggles and solidifying his reputation as a premier closer. The Celtics' offensive woes, marked by an over-reliance on three-pointers and late-game scoring droughts, have been exacerbated by key players like Jayson Tatum struggling to find consistency. As the series shifts to Madison Square Garden, the Knicks, fueled by Jalen Brunson's leadership and the contributions of Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns, are in a prime position to advance. To avoid a devastating early exit, the Celtics must rediscover their offensive rhythm, address their fourth-quarter collapses, and find a way to contain the Knicks' resilient attack.
Disclaimer: This article was generated by an AI system that synthesizes information from multiple news sources. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy and objectivity, reporting nuances, potential biases, or errors from original sources may be reflected. The information presented here is for informational purposes and should be verified with primary sources, especially for critical decisions.