NBA Playoffs: Celtics' 22-Point Win Shifts Momentum Against Knicks

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Post on May 12, 2025

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NBA Playoffs: Celtics' 22-Point Rout Shifts Momentum Against Knicks

The Boston Celtics emphatically shifted the momentum of their first-round playoff series against the New York Knicks with a dominant 118-96 victory in Game 3. This resounding 22-point win, a stark contrast to the previous two closely contested games, leaves the Celtics firmly in control as the series heads back to Madison Square Garden. The question now: can the Knicks recover their swagger and avoid a potential series sweep?

Celtics Dominate on Both Ends of the Court

The Celtics' victory wasn't just a win; it was a statement. They controlled the game from tip-off, showcasing superior offensive execution and stifling defensive pressure. Jayson Tatum led the charge, showcasing his all-around brilliance with a near triple-double performance. Jaylen Brown also contributed significantly, proving the Celtics’ formidable two-headed offensive monster is back in full force. But the win wasn't solely reliant on their star duo. Role players stepped up, hitting crucial shots and providing essential defensive contributions. This collective effort underscores the Celtics’ depth and their ability to dominate even without a completely flawless performance from their superstars.

Knicks Struggle to Find an Answer

The Knicks, who had previously shown resilience and strong defensive prowess, seemed completely outmatched in Game 3. Their usually potent offense sputtered, failing to find consistent scoring opportunities against Boston’s improved defense. Jalen Brunson, despite his best efforts, couldn't find the same rhythm that carried the Knicks in the first two games. The absence of RJ Barrett due to an ankle injury also undoubtedly hampered their offensive capabilities. While the Knicks' defense showed flashes of brilliance, they struggled to contain the Celtics' versatile attack, allowing open looks and second-chance points.

Game 3 Highlights:

• Tatum's All-Around Excellence: Jayson Tatum dominated, showcasing his offensive prowess and defensive intensity.
• Brown's Consistent Contribution: Jaylen Brown provided crucial scoring and played a strong all-around game.
• Role Players Stepping Up: The Celtics' bench players made significant contributions, highlighting their team depth.
• Knicks Offensive Struggles: The Knicks struggled to find an offensive rhythm against the Celtics' improved defense.
• Impact of Barrett's Absence: The absence of RJ Barrett proved significant, affecting the Knicks' offensive flow.

Looking Ahead: Can the Knicks Bounce Back?

The Knicks face a monumental task heading into Game 4. They need to rediscover their offensive rhythm, improve their defensive intensity, and find a way to contain the Celtics’ dynamic duo. The return of RJ Barrett would be a significant boost, providing much-needed scoring punch and defensive presence. However, even with Barrett back, the Knicks face an uphill battle against a Celtics team playing with confidence and momentum. The series, once thought to be a close battle, now heavily favors Boston. The Knicks will need a herculean effort to avoid a demoralizing sweep. The pressure is firmly on the Knicks to prove their Game 3 performance was an anomaly and not a sign of things to come. The next game will be a true test of their resilience and determination. The NBA Playoffs are notorious for unexpected twists and turns, but for now, the Celtics hold all the cards.