BOSTON -- In a thrilling Game 5 showdown, Derrick White delivered a stellar performance with 34 points, including seven 3-pointers, leading the Boston Celtics to a decisive 127-102 victory over the New York Knicks on Wednesday night. This win not only keeps the Celtics alive in the Eastern Conference semifinals but also marks their first home victory of the series and their first without star player Jayson Tatum, who suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon injury.
The Celtics showcased their shooting prowess by draining 22 3-pointers, tying the franchise record for the most 3-pointers made in a playoff game. With this victory, Boston aims to extend the series, as the Knicks will have another chance to clinch the series this Friday in New York. Should the Celtics secure a win, a potential Game 7 would take place in Boston on Monday, adding to the excitement of this playoff matchup.
In addition to White's impressive scoring, Jaylen Brown contributed significantly with 26 points and 12 assists. This remarkable feat made him the first Celtics player in the last 30 postseasons to score at least 25 points while assisting on 30 others in a playoff game. Another standout was Luke Kornet, who had a breakout performance with 10 points, nine rebounds, and an impressive seven blocks, particularly notable given that Kristaps Porzingis played just 12 minutes.
The Celtics are now seeking to join an elite group, aiming to become the 14th team in NBA history to overcome a 3-1 series deficit, a feat accomplished in only 294 attempts. This quest adds an extra layer of pressure and excitement as they pursue a comeback.
The Knicks fought hard, with Josh Hart leading the team with 24 points, even after briefly exiting the game in the first quarter due to a bloody gash on his face from an inadvertent elbow. Jalen Brunson also contributed 22 points but fouled out with 7:19 remaining in the game. Boston initially trailed by nine points in the first half but staged a remarkable turnaround by closing the third quarter on a 23-9 run, taking a commanding 91-76 lead into the final period.
Brunson's absence in the final minutes of the third quarter proved crucial, as he spent the last 2:45 on the bench after picking up his fifth foul. The Celtics maintained their momentum in the fourth quarter, extending their lead to as high as 28 points, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive tenacity.
This game was characterized by its physicality, highlighted by a brief skirmish between Hart and Brown, which added to the intensity on the court. The Celtics came out strong, hitting five 3-pointers from White and a total of 12 in the first half alone. Despite their efforts, the Knicks managed to take an early lead of nine points, aided by eight 3-pointers and 10 second-chance points.
Mitchell Robinson's performance also stood out; he converted all four of his free throw attempts in the first half, effectively countering the Celtics' intentional foul strategy that they had employed throughout the series. As the first half concluded, both teams were locked in a tie at 59-59, setting the stage for an electrifying second half.
As the series continues, all eyes will be on the upcoming games, with the Celtics determined to fight back and the Knicks eager to secure their spot in the next round.
