The New York Knicks pulled off another stunning comeback, defeating the Boston Celtics 91-90 in Game 2 of the NBA Playoffs on May 7, 2025. This victory not only gives the Knicks a commanding 2-0 lead in the series but also marks a remarkable repeat of their resilience, overcoming a 20-point deficit for the second consecutive game.
As the game unfolded at TD Garden in Boston, the Celtics initially seemed poised to even the series after a strong start. They surged ahead with a 20-point lead late in the third quarter, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive tenacity. However, the Knicks, led by Josh Hart's 23 points and Mikal Bridges' explosive fourth quarter performance, would not be denied.
Bridges, who had been quiet for much of the game, erupted in the final frame, scoring all 14 of his points in the fourth quarter. His contributions were pivotal, especially as he made a game-clinching steal from Jayson Tatum in the closing seconds, sealing the Knicks' victory. "We just kept fighting, kept believing, and we knew we could come back," Bridges said after the game.
Jalen Brunson, the Knicks' star guard, added 17 points, including crucial free throws that gave New York the lead with just 12.7 seconds remaining. Brunson, who has been dubbed the most clutch player in the league this season, once again proved his mettle when it mattered most. "I just try to stay composed and focus on the next play," he stated. "Every point counts in these playoffs, and we executed when we needed to."
The Celtics, who had initially dominated with a strong offensive showing, faltered in the final minutes. After leading 84-68 with 8:40 left in the game, they managed to score only six points the rest of the way, failing to hit a field goal in the last 8:40 of the match. This dismal finish echoes their performance in Game 1, where they also squandered a significant lead.
Jaylen Brown and Derrick White led the Celtics with 20 points each, but their efforts were overshadowed by the Knicks' late-game heroics. Brown had a strong first half, contributing 17 points, but like the rest of the team, he struggled to maintain that momentum in the closing stages. "We need to learn how to close out games better," Brown reflected after the loss. "We can't let leads slip away like that, especially in the playoffs."
The game started with the Celtics taking an early lead, fueled by a 7-0 run and a strong performance from White, who scored 14 points in the first half. The Celtics ended the first quarter with a 24-13 lead, having held the Knicks to just 26% shooting from the field. However, the Knicks began to chip away at the lead, thanks to Karl-Anthony Towns' contributions, who finished with 21 points and 17 rebounds.
As the second half began, the Celtics maintained their lead, but the Knicks were not ready to back down. They trailed 73-61 at the end of the third quarter, but a 38-17 run in the fourth quarter turned the tide in their favor.
In the final moments of the game, the Knicks executed their plays with precision. After cutting the lead to just four points, Brunson hit a crucial jumper to give New York their first lead of the night with 1:59 left on the clock. The momentum had shifted, and the Knicks capitalized on the Celtics' inability to score.
With just 18.5 seconds remaining, Tatum managed to slam home a basket, giving the Celtics a brief lead. However, Brunson was fouled on the ensuing possession, sinking both free throws and putting the Knicks back in front. The Celtics had one last chance, but Tatum's errant pass to Bridges sealed their fate.
Game 2's outcome has left the Celtics in a precarious position as they now face a must-win situation heading into Game 3 at Madison Square Garden on Saturday, May 10, 2025. The Knicks will look to extend their lead and put the defending champions on the brink of elimination.
As the series shifts back to New York, both teams will need to adjust their strategies. The Celtics must find a way to maintain their lead and finish games strong, while the Knicks will aim to keep their momentum going. With the stakes higher than ever, the upcoming matchup promises to be an exciting clash.
In the aftermath of Game 2, the narrative is clear: the Knicks have shown they are not to be underestimated, and the Celtics must regroup if they hope to turn the tide in this playoff series. The stage is set for an intense Game 3, and fans are eagerly awaiting what unfolds next.
