Knicks Fall To Celtics As Boston Hits 20 Three-Pointers In Game 3 Victory

David

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Post on May 12, 2025

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Knicks Fall to Celtics as Boston's 20 Three-Pointers Seal Game 3 Victory

The New York Knicks suffered a devastating blow in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series against the Boston Celtics, losing 116-108 at TD Garden. The Celtics' blistering performance from beyond the arc, hitting a remarkable 20 three-pointers, proved to be the decisive factor in a game that saw several momentum swings. This crushing defeat puts the Knicks in a precarious 2-1 series deficit heading back to Madison Square Garden.

Celtics' Long-Range Assault Dominates

Boston's three-point shooting was nothing short of spectacular. Jayson Tatum led the charge, showcasing his all-around brilliance with a game-high 32 points, hitting several crucial three-pointers down the stretch. Jaylen Brown added a solid 26 points, further contributing to the Celtics' relentless long-range attack. The sheer volume of three-pointers, a franchise playoff record, overwhelmed the Knicks' defense, leaving them scrambling to keep up. This offensive firepower highlights the Celtics' improved offensive versatility compared to last year's playoff run. Their ability to consistently hit from deep puts immense pressure on any defense.

Knicks Fight Back, But Fall Short

Despite the Celtics' dominant three-point shooting, the Knicks demonstrated resilience and fought back valiantly. Jalen Brunson, the Knicks' offensive engine, put up a strong 28 points, showcasing his determination and leadership. Julius Randle, though somewhat inconsistent, contributed a double-double, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple facets. However, the Knicks' efforts were ultimately undermined by their inability to consistently match Boston's three-point production and a significant struggle controlling the boards.

Key Moments That Defined the Game:

• The Third-Quarter Surge: Boston's explosive third quarter, where they hit multiple consecutive three-pointers, effectively broke the game open. This period highlighted the Knicks’ defensive vulnerabilities and the Celtics' ruthless efficiency.
• Brunson's Heroics: Despite the loss, Jalen Brunson’s performance deserves praise. He relentlessly attacked the basket and consistently created scoring opportunities, showing the leadership qualities that define his game.
• Randle's Inconsistency: While Randle provided valuable contributions, his inconsistency throughout the game, particularly in his shot selection, presented challenges for the Knicks. His overall performance will need to improve for the Knicks to level the series.

What's Next for the Knicks?

The Knicks now face a critical Game 4 at Madison Square Garden. To avoid falling into a 3-1 hole, they need to significantly improve their three-point defense and rebounding efforts. Adjusting their defensive strategies to better contain Boston’s long-range threat will be paramount. Expect Coach Thibodeau to make significant adjustments to the game plan, focusing on limiting second-chance points and contesting every three-point attempt. The series is far from over, but the Knicks need a monumental effort to regain control.

Looking Ahead: Can the Knicks Level the Series?

The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden will be electric, providing a crucial home-court advantage. The Knicks' ability to feed off this energy and execute their game plan effectively will determine their chances of leveling the series. The coming days will be crucial for the Knicks to regroup, analyze their mistakes, and prepare for a pivotal Game 4. Their playoff hopes hang in the balance. Will they answer the call? Only time will tell.

Keywords: Knicks, Celtics, NBA Playoffs, Game 3, Eastern Conference Semifinals, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, three-pointers, basketball, NBA, playoff basketball, Madison Square Garden, TD Garden.