Celtics' Offensive Surge: 20 Three-Pointers Seal Knicks Game 3 Loss

David

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Post on May 12, 2025

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Celtics' Offensive Explosion: 20 Three-Pointers Seal Knicks' Game 3 Loss

The Boston Celtics unleashed a barrage of three-pointers in Game 3, sinking a staggering 20 shots from beyond the arc en route to a decisive victory over the New York Knicks. This offensive onslaught effectively silenced Madison Square Garden and put the Celtics firmly in control of the series. The 116-108 defeat leaves the Knicks facing a daunting uphill battle as they head back to Boston.

The game was a masterclass in perimeter shooting, a stark contrast to the lower-scoring, more physical battles that characterized the first two games of the series. The Knicks, known for their strong defense, simply couldn't contain the Celtics' hot shooting. This offensive surge wasn't just about individual brilliance; it was a collective effort, highlighting the team's improved ball movement and strategic shot selection.

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Jayson Tatum Leads the Charge

Jayson Tatum led the charge for the Celtics, showcasing his all-around talent with a commanding performance. While the final stats aren't yet available, early reports suggest a significant point contribution and a high shooting percentage, solidifying his status as a key player in this series. His ability to both create his own shots and facilitate for teammates proved crucial in breaking down the Knicks' defense.

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The Impact of Three-Point Shooting

The sheer volume of three-pointers made by the Celtics is what truly defined Game 3. Twenty successful three-point attempts are not just impressive; they represent a significant strategic shift and a clear indication of the team's confidence in their perimeter shooting. This dominance from beyond the arc forced the Knicks to constantly adjust their defensive strategy, ultimately leaving them vulnerable to other aspects of the Celtics' offensive game. This ability to shoot effectively from deep is a key component of modern NBA success, and the Celtics showcased it flawlessly in Game 3. Learn more about the impact of three-point shooting in the NBA by reading this insightful analysis from ESPN [link to relevant ESPN article].

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Knicks Struggle to Find an Answer

The Knicks struggled to find a consistent answer to the Celtics' three-point onslaught. While they fought hard, their defensive rotations were often a step behind, leaving shooters open for easy attempts. The Knicks' reliance on their interior game was somewhat neutralized by the Celtics' perimeter dominance, exposing a potential weakness in their game plan. This is something Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau will need to address before Game 4. The absence of [injured Knicks player, if applicable] also significantly impacted their overall performance.

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Looking Ahead to Game 4

The series now shifts back to Boston, where the Celtics will look to capitalize on their Game 3 momentum. The Knicks, however, will need to regroup, analyze their defensive strategy, and find a way to neutralize the Celtics' potent three-point shooting. Game 4 promises to be a crucial matchup, and the outcome could very well determine the series' trajectory. Are the Knicks capable of bouncing back, or will the Celtics maintain their offensive dominance and advance to the next round? Only time will tell.

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Keywords: Celtics, Knicks, NBA Playoffs, Game 3, Three-Pointers, Jayson Tatum, Offensive Surge, Basketball, NBA, Playoffs 2024 (or relevant year), Madison Square Garden, Tom Thibodeau.

Call to Action (subtle): Stay tuned for our comprehensive coverage of Game 4! Follow us for the latest updates and analysis.