Boston Celtics Keep Playoff Hopes Alive with Thrashing Win

The Boston Celtics defeated the New York Knicks 127-102, keeping their playoff hopes alive and forcing a Game 6.

Luke Kornet contributed 10 points, complementing Derrick White's 34 points and Jaylen Brown's 26 points, eight rebounds, and 12 assists. The Celtics' balanced offense saw six players score in double figures, securing a 127-102 win over the New York Knicks.

Boston coach Joe Mazzulla praised his team's response to Monday's defeat and the season-ending injury to Jayson Tatum, saying, “Whatever it is that we have to go through, there's no bunch of people I'd rather do it with than the guys in that locker room. It's that simple.”

The Boston Celtics secured a crucial win against the New York Knicks, defeating them 127-102 at TD Garden and keeping their playoff hopes alive. Despite facing a 3-2 series deficit, the Celtics showed determination and resilience in their victory.

Contrary to reports of Jayson Tatum suffering a season-ending injury in the previous game, he didn't seem to be out for the season in this game, but actual details about his injury and performance weren't specified in the latest reports. The Celtics will now head to New York for Game 6, where they'll aim to extend the series and force a deciding Game 7.

Recent Knicks-Celtics Match Highlights:

In their previous encounter, Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 39 points, 12 assists, and five rebounds, while Jayson Tatum scored 42 points for the Celtics before exiting due to injury. The Knicks' win in Game 4 put them on the brink of advancing, but the Celtics' latest victory has kept the series alive.

The Boston Celtics have forced a sixth game in their series against the New York Knicks, thanks to outstanding performances from Derrick White and Jaylen Brown. White scored 34 points, while Brown added 26 points, eight rebounds, and 12 assists, keeping the reigning NBA champions' hopes alive.

Luke Kornet, a relatively unknown player from Boston's bench, made a significant defensive impact. The 7ft 1in center showcased his shot-blocking prowess with seven blocks and a steal, disrupting the Knicks' offense and contributing to Boston's 127-102 victory.

Series Details:

• Current Series Standings: New York Knicks lead 3-2
• Next Game: Game 6 on May 16 at Madison Square Garden in New York
• Potential Deciding Game: Game 7 on May 19 at TD Garden in Boston if necessary

The Celtics' win has set up a thrilling Game 6 at Madison Square Garden, where they will aim to extend the series and force a deciding Game 7 if necessary.

“They made enough plays to win, and they gave us another chance to play.

“You never want to be without any of your players, especially one of your best ones. But regardless of who's out, each guy steps up and plays a role.”

The game between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks was neck and neck at halftime, with both teams tied 59-59. However, the dynamics changed dramatically in the third quarter when Boston went on a scoring spree.

THIS ONE’S FOR JT ☘️#DifferentHere pic.twitter.com/Kftizy3zNT

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) May 15, 2025

The Celtics outscored the Knicks 32-17 in that quarter, thanks to Derrick White's impressive 13 points, which helped them build a commanding 15-point lead heading into the fourth quarter. This significant gap set the tone for the rest of the game.

As the fourth quarter progressed, the Celtics continued to assert their dominance, stretching their lead to 23 points with just under eight minutes left. They maintained a substantial double-digit advantage until the end, securing a 127-102 victory over the Knicks.

The New York Knicks' chances of a dramatic comeback faded when star playmaker Jalen Brunson fouled out with 7:19 remaining in the fourth quarter. Brunson scored 22 points and had six assists before exiting the game.

Josh Hart led the Knicks with 24 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 19 points. Despite a strong start, where they led by nine points in the second quarter, the Knicks struggled to maintain momentum.

Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau attributed his team's loss to their inability to build on their early success, which ultimately proved costly. The Celtics' 127-102 victory kept their playoff hopes alive.

“We didn't play tough with the lead in the second quarter. Then we came out for the third quarter and didn't play well -- you can't afford to do that,” Thibodeau said.