As the New York Knicks continue their battle against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, New York must avoid trailing Boston to close out Game 5. The team started the series with impressive comebacks in Games 1 and 2; however, they could not maintain that momentum in Game 3. Boston dominated the game from start to finish, 115-93 at Madison Square Garden. The game wasn’t even as close as the score suggested. However, on Monday night, the Knicks responded with a tight 121-113 victory in Game 4 after trailing big early in the third quarter. New York has a commanding 3-1 series lead. Let’s dive into how the Knicks can close out the series in Game 5.
New York Knicks Must Avoid One Thing vs Celtics To Close Out Game 5
The Knicks trailed big in Games 1 and 2 at the TD Garden, but they were able to pull off shocking comeback victories. This time, the game only went one way. Boston got hot with their three-point shooting and never allowed the Knicks to get within an inch of pulling off a comeback. Five different Celtics scored in double figures, while also going 20-to-40 beyond the arc.
In response to Game 3, the Knicks came back and won a tight Game 4, 121-113, taking a commanding 3-1 series lead. This time, Boston could not hold a lead. The home team found themselves down big early in the third quarter but refused a repeat of Game 3. While Monday night was another come-from-behind victory against the Celtics, the Knicks still need to be dominant from start to finish. Unsurprisingly, players like Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges had their signature moments on the court.
The Celtics are a seasoned team with more playoff experience. Although the New York Knicks have made the playoffs in recent memory, they have not won a championship since 1973. Although Games 1, 2, and 4 showed otherwise, Game 3 showed that a sizable lead can shift the momentum in Boston’s favor. Achieving comeback victories is excellent, as the Knicks have done three times this series. However, for New York to close out Boston in Game 5, they can’t afford any more large deficits, as the Celtics will seek a comeback themselves as they return to TD Garden.
Knicks Can Hold on to Momentum
Comeback victories do require a lot of energy and focus. Constantly fighting through large deficits can wear down the Knicks both physically and mentally, which can increase the risk of injury. As seen in Game 3, Boston’s ability to score aggressively and effectively can make catching up extremely difficult. If the Knicks keep getting into big deficits, it’ll become even harder to challenge the Celtics’ offensive rhythm.
While New York has proven their comeback prowess, relying on come-from-behind rallies is not sustainable against talented teams like the Celtics or the Cleveland Cavaliers. Boston has a substantial enough firepower to capitalize on any Knicks weaknesses, inconsistencies, and tendencies. Being up 3-1 is a huge advantage, but if the Knicks let the Celtics rally back, it could completely shift the series, making the pressure against the New York Knicks very intense. Boston’s star Jayson Tatum went down with a torn Achilles late in Monday night’s Game 4, which hurts the Celtics’ hopes of coming back in this series.
While chasing a loose ball in Game 4’s final minutes, Tatum stepped backward with his right leg and immediately fell to the ground. He had to be carried off the floor by the team’s medical staff as he couldn’t get up on his own power. With Tatum gone, the Celtics will miss him greatly, and other Boston players must step up in his place. Tatum being out could help the Knicks build a lead earlier.
The Last Word
Overall, while the Knicks have shown resilience throughout this series, they must prioritize avoiding massive deficits against Boston as they seek to close out the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Falling behind significantly invites necessary pressure against a formidable opponent. Yes, the Knicks have proven they can rally from behind, but relying on comeback heroics is not sustainable, especially as the playoffs get more intense. The time is now for New York to dominate from start to finish and close the series decisively.
Featured image: © Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
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