May 16th, 2025
The last time the Knicks made it this far? The year 2000. Now, they stand just four wins away from the NBA Finals.
The momentum shift in the series appeared to coincide with a major setback for Boston. Star forward Jayson Tatum suffered a serious lower leg injury during Game 4, a blow first reported by The Athletic. His absence loomed large in Game 6, as the Celtics struggled to find rhythm or offensive leadership. Without Tatum’s scoring and playmaking, Boston looked a step slow, and the Knicks pounced.
New York’s strategy was crystal clear: smother Boston from the opening tip. The Knicks’ perimeter defense, led by Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby, delivered a clinic in containment and disruption. As highlighted by ESPN, both players disrupted passing lanes, challenged shots, and set the tone with physical defense that the Celtics never adjusted to. Boston’s offense stalled under the pressure, managing just 81 points—their lowest output of the postseason.
After lackluster showings in Games 3 and 4 where he totaled only 16 points, Josh Hart flipped the script. He logged a triple-double in Game 6: 10 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. Hart’s energy, hustle, and clutch decision-making lifted the Knicks and symbolized their all-around team effort.
Jalen Brunson dropped 23 points in the series-clinching win, continuing his playoff brilliance. Karl-Anthony Towns added another efficient 20+ point game, following his 32-point explosion in Game 4. Both stars have anchored the Knicks’ offense and silenced any doubts about their ability to perform under postseason pressure.
The Knicks led by as many as 37 points in Game 6, a stark contrast to earlier series struggles—especially Game 3, where their defense was shredded by Boston’s pick-and-roll execution. But adjustments, intensity, and a roaring home crowd turned the tide. From tip-off to the final buzzer, New York outclassed Boston in every facet.
By dispatching the Celtics—last year’s champions—the Knicks have emerged as legitimate contenders in the 2025 NBA Playoffs. Once labeled a team with a limited postseason ceiling, they’ve broken through with purpose, poise, and a belief that this run is far from over.
Game 1 against the Indiana Pacers tips off Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden. It’s a throwback matchup that rekindles a fierce 1990s rivalry. This time, the stakes are sky-high—and the Knicks are no longer underdogs.