Knicks Fall To Celtics: 20 Made Threes Seal Boston's Game 3 Win

David

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Post on May 12, 2025

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Knicks Fall to Celtics: 20 Made Threes Seal Boston's Game 3 Win

The New York Knicks' playoff hopes took a significant blow last night as they suffered a devastating 145-117 loss to the Boston Celtics in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series. The Celtics' overwhelming victory was fueled by a record-breaking performance from beyond the arc, burying 20 three-pointers en route to a commanding 2-1 series lead.

This wasn't just a win; it was a three-point barrage unlike anything seen in recent playoff history. The Celtics' accuracy from downtown completely overwhelmed the Knicks' defense, leaving them scrambling and unable to contain the onslaught. The sheer volume of made threes, coupled with efficient inside scoring, proved too much for the Knicks to overcome.

<h3>Celtics' Offensive Explosion: A Record-Breaking Night</h3>

The 20 three-pointers shattered numerous franchise records and will likely be a talking point for years to come. Jayson Tatum led the charge, showcasing his all-around scoring prowess with a combination of impressive drives to the basket and deadly three-point shooting. Jaylen Brown also contributed significantly, adding another layer of offensive threat that the Knicks struggled to neutralize. The Celtics’ bench also played a crucial role, providing consistent scoring and maintaining the offensive pressure throughout the game. This offensive explosion showcased the Celtics' deep and versatile roster, a significant factor in their dominance.

The Knicks, known for their strong defense throughout the regular season and the first two games of this series, simply couldn't find an answer for Boston's hot shooting. Their usually reliable defensive schemes were rendered ineffective against the relentless barrage of three-pointers. This highlights the unpredictable nature of playoff basketball and the importance of adapting to a team's strengths and weaknesses.

<h3>Knicks' Struggles: Defense Cracks Under Pressure</h3>

While the Celtics' offensive performance was undoubtedly exceptional, the Knicks' defensive struggles were equally noteworthy. Their inability to contest shots consistently allowed Boston to establish a rhythm early, a rhythm they never relinquished. The Knicks' usually effective perimeter defense, a cornerstone of their success this season, was noticeably absent, leaving them vulnerable to the Celtics’ potent outside shooting. The lack of consistent defensive pressure also allowed the Celtics to exploit mismatches, leading to easy baskets inside.

Furthermore, the Knicks struggled to find their own offensive rhythm. While individual players had moments of brilliance, the team lacked the consistent flow and synergy that characterized their previous wins. The Celtics' stifling defense forced turnovers and disrupted the Knicks' offensive sets, compounding their difficulties.

<h3>Looking Ahead: Can the Knicks Bounce Back?</h3>

The series is far from over, and the Knicks, known for their resilience, will undoubtedly be looking to regroup and make necessary adjustments before Game 4. They’ll need to rediscover their defensive intensity and find ways to neutralize the Celtics' three-point threat. Improved ball movement and more efficient shot selection on offense will also be crucial for any chance of a comeback. This loss serves as a harsh reminder of the challenges in facing a team as talented and well-coached as the Boston Celtics. The Knicks need to find a way to adapt, refocus, and fight back in Game 4 to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Keywords: Knicks, Celtics, NBA Playoffs, Game 3, Three-pointers, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Eastern Conference Semifinals, NBA, Basketball, Playoffs 2024, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, basketball game, NBA news, sports news

Call to Action (subtle): Stay tuned for our coverage of Game 4 and follow us for the latest updates on the Eastern Conference Semifinals.