Knicks Fall To Celtics As 20 Three-Pointers Seal Game 3 Defeat

David

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Post on May 12, 2025

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Knicks Fall to Celtics as 20 Three-Pointers Seal Game 3 Defeat

The New York Knicks suffered a crushing defeat in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series against the Boston Celtics, losing 116-108. The Celtics' blistering performance from beyond the arc, sinking a staggering 20 three-pointers, proved to be the decisive factor in a game that saw the Knicks fight hard but ultimately fall short. This devastating loss puts the Knicks in a 2-1 series deficit, increasing the pressure heading into Game 4.

Celtics' Rain of Threes Drowns Knicks' Efforts

The story of Game 3 was undoubtedly Boston's exceptional shooting. Jayson Tatum led the charge, showcasing his all-around talent with a game-high 32 points, while Jaylen Brown added 26. But it wasn't just their star players; the Celtics' role players consistently found the bottom of the net from long range. Their 20 three-pointers represent a monumental display of offensive firepower and a significant challenge for the Knicks' defense moving forward. This marks one of the highest three-point totals in recent playoff history, highlighting the Celtics' efficiency and the Knicks' struggles to contain them.

Knicks' Fight Back Falls Short

Despite the Celtics' barrage of three-pointers, the Knicks didn't go down without a fight. Jalen Brunson, the Knicks' offensive engine, delivered another strong performance, scoring 29 points and demonstrating his resilience in the face of adversity. Julius Randle also contributed significantly, showcasing his versatility, but the Knicks ultimately couldn't overcome the deficit created by Boston's exceptional outside shooting. The Knicks’ defense, usually a strong suit, struggled to adapt to the Celtics' relentless attack from the perimeter.

What Went Wrong for the Knicks?

Several factors contributed to the Knicks' defeat. While Brunson and Randle performed admirably, the supporting cast struggled to consistently find their rhythm. The Knicks' defense, known for its intensity, seemed a step behind the Celtics' quick passes and seamless ball movement. Their inability to close out on shooters consistently allowed the Celtics to gain a significant advantage from beyond the arc. The rebounding battle was also a key factor, with the Celtics securing crucial second-chance opportunities.

Looking Ahead to Game 4

The series now shifts back to Madison Square Garden for a crucial Game 4. The Knicks need to regroup, analyze their defensive strategies, and find a way to effectively contest Boston's three-point shooting. Improving their own offensive consistency and exploiting any defensive weaknesses in the Celtics’ lineup will be paramount. The energy and atmosphere of MSG will undoubtedly play a crucial role, providing a much-needed boost for the Knicks. Can they leverage home-court advantage and even the series? The upcoming game promises to be a pivotal moment in the series.

Keywords: Knicks, Celtics, NBA Playoffs, Game 3, Eastern Conference Semifinals, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, three-pointers, basketball, NBA, sports news, playoff basketball

Related Articles: (Internal links - hypothetical examples)

• [Link to Knicks' Season Preview Article]
• [Link to Celtics' Season Recap Article]

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