The New York Knicks made a statement in Boston – right at the start of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Trailing by 20 points, they capped their comeback with a dramatic steal in the final seconds of overtime.
The New York Knicks won Game 1 of the series against the Boston Celtics with a 108-105 overtime victory thanks to a decisive steal by Mikal Bridges in the final seconds. Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby led New York with 29 points each, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed a double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds.
For a long time, it didn’t look like the Knicks would win: Boston controlled the game, led by 16 points at halftime and was even 20 points ahead in the third quarter. But New York fought back, cut the deficit to 84-75 after three quarters and forced a tie with strong defense and ultimately a dunk by Anunoby.
In a wild final phase, the lead changed hands several times. Anunoby put the Knicks back in front with a three-pointer, but Jrue Holiday equalized at the other end. After a missed shot by Tatum, the score was 97-97 going into overtime. New York started with a 6-0 run – Anunoby with a three-pointer, Bridges from outside.
Jaylen Brown cut the lead to 108-105 with a three-pointer, but after missed shots on both sides, Boston had a chance to tie the game with 3 seconds left – until Bridges stole Brown’s throw-in and secured the win.
The Celtics made only 15 of their 60 three-point attempts – a playoff record low. Jayson Tatum (16 rebounds) and Brown each scored 23 points, while Derrick White added 19 points and 11 rebounds. Kristaps Porzingis played only 13 minutes due to illness and did not score. Boston is under pressure after the early shock, while New York is sending a clear signal.
