Boston, Massachusetts — The rivalry between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks has intensified as they face off in the second round of the 2025 NBA playoffs. In a dramatic Game 1 on Monday night, the Knicks rallied from a 20-point deficit to secure a 108-105 victory in overtime, snatching home-court advantage from the reigning champions.
Despite the Celtics’ reputation, they struggled with their shooting, setting a grim NBA record by missing 45 three-pointers. The team ended the game shooting just 15 for 60 from beyond the arc. Their performance poses questions about adjustments heading into Game 2, scheduled for Wednesday evening. The Celtics, however, remain the series favorites, largely due to their star power and experience.
This marks the first playoff encounter between these storied franchises since 2013. The Celtics advanced past the Orlando Magic in the first round, winning in five games, while the Knicks edged out the Detroit Pistons in a tightly contested six-game series. Both teams feature All-NBA talents: Celtics forward Jayson Tatum, who averaged 31.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in the previous round; and Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, who posted 31.5 points and 8.2 assists against Detroit.
As the series resumes, the Celtics will need to reassess their strategy. While they were projected to perform well, the Game 1 outcome highlighted their vulnerabilities. Turnovers and defensive lapses allowed the Knicks to capitalize at crucial moments. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau’s strategy of switching on defense paid off despite initial concerns about foul trouble for star player Karl-Anthony Towns.
Looking ahead, the Knicks face the challenge of maintaining their momentum without relying excessively on standout performances. OG Anunoby’s surprising 29-point game cannot be expected every night, and the team will need a more balanced scoring approach. Towns, who struggled with foul trouble, will need to be pivotal in helping the Knicks match scoring with Boston.
With both teams in a playoff mindset, Game 2 could prove critical in determining the series trajectory. Celtics players are expected to regroup and make necessary adjustments to exploit the Knicks’ weaknesses, particularly in shooting execution and rebounding. Despite the disappointment from their opening loss, expectations for a fierce rebound are high among Celtics fans.
As the tension rises, NBA spectators eagerly anticipate how this fierce rivalry will unfold over the coming games. With the stakes this high, both teams are poised to deliver slow-burning drama and breathtaking basketball in their quest for playoff supremacy. The next meeting promises to be a fierce battle as both teams vie for the upper hand.