Jalen Brunson delivered a standout performance with 39 points and 12 assists as the New York Knicks edged closer to a spot in the Eastern Conference finals, defeating the Boston Celtics 121-113 in Game 4. This victory brings the Knicks within one win of their first conference final appearance in 25 years.
The game was marked by a concerning incident when Celtics star Jayson Tatum fell to the court with a potential right leg injury, leaving his team in a precarious position. With Tatum’s status uncertain, the Celtics will have to mount a historic comeback if they hope to defend their title, needing to overcome a 3-1 series deficit, a feat that has only been accomplished 13 times in NBA history.
Brunson’s performance was pivotal, particularly in the third quarter, where he scored 18 points, leading the Knicks to a commanding second-half dominance after being down at halftime. The Knicks became the first home team to win in this series after experiencing a heavy loss in Game 3, showcasing their ability to bounce back under pressure. Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns contributed significantly with 23 points each, while OG Anunoby rebounded from earlier struggles to add 20 points.
Despite the setback, Celtics veteran Al Horford emphasized the need for the team to stay focused and rally together in Tatum’s absence, urging a strong mindset as they prepare for a critical Game 5 in Boston. Tatum’s injury, which occurred while racing for a loose ball, casts a shadow on the Celtics’ hopes of keeping their championship dream alive.
As the series progresses, the Knicks look to seal their path to the conference finals, making fans hopeful for a long-awaited resurgence in New York basketball. On the other hand, the Celtics face a daunting challenge to not only recover from Tatum’s potential absence but to also capture the spirit of resilience they have shown throughout the season.
The stakes couldn’t be higher as both teams approach their next match, with each eyeing a pivotal victory that could change the course of the series.