The New York Knicks pulled off a stunning comeback in Game 2 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series, defeating the Boston Celtics 91-90 at TD Garden. With the win, the Knicks take a 2-0 lead as the series heads back to New York for Game 3.
Josh Hart led the charge with 23 points and 6 rebounds, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed a powerful double-double with 21 points and 17 rebounds. Jalen Brunson added 17 points and 7 assists, and Mikal Bridges made a critical impact late with 14 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists — including a game-saving steal in the final seconds.
The Celtics looked in control for much of the game. They opened on a 7-0 run and held a 24-13 lead after the first quarter, with Jrue Holiday and Derrick White setting the tone early. Boston extended its advantage to 20 points in the third quarter, as Jaylen Brown and White continued to find success offensively.
Towns sparked the Knicks in the second quarter with back-to-back three-point plays, trimming the gap to single digits. Despite the surge, the Celtics maintained a 50-41 lead at halftime, with White and Brown combining for 24 points.
Boston's dominance resumed early in the third, capped by a 9-0 run that pushed the lead to 70-50. But the Knicks refused to fold. Hart nailed a pair of timely threes, and backup guard Miles McBride provided a boost off the bench, helping cut the deficit to 12 points entering the final period.
The fourth quarter belonged to New York. After trailing 84-68, the Knicks unleashed a furious rally. Bridges ignited the offense with 7 straight points, while Towns converted another three-point play. Brunson's midrange jumper gave the Knicks a brief 89-86 edge.
Jayson Tatum answered with four points of his own, putting Boston back in front. But Brunson drew a foul on Holiday and calmly sank two clutch free throws to restore a 91-90 Knicks lead.
With the game on the line in the final seconds, Tatum attempted to drive for a last shot, only to be stripped cleanly by Bridges, sealing a dramatic victory for New York.
Starting Lineups:
Knicks: Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns
Celtics: Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, Al Horford
The Knicks will now look to carry their momentum into Game 3 at Madison Square Garden, with a chance to take a commanding 3-0 series lead.