Celtics vs. Knicks: Game 1 Upset Shakes Up the Playoffs
The NBA playoffs are off to a thrilling start! Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals saw a monumental upset as the New York Knicks defeated the reigning champion Boston Celtics 108-105 in overtime. This incredible comeback, from a 20-point deficit, sent shockwaves through the league. Meanwhile, in the West, the Denver Nuggets narrowly escaped with a 121-119 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the series.
The Knicks' Miraculous Comeback
The Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown's combined 46 points, appeared dominant in the third quarter. But the Knicks, fueled by Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby's stellar performances (both scoring 29 points each), mounted an unforgettable comeback. Brunson's clutch plays in the fourth quarter and overtime were pivotal, while Anunoby's consistent scoring proved invaluable. The Celtics' struggles from beyond the arc – a playoff record 45 missed three-pointers out of 60 attempts – ultimately sealed their fate. Coach Tom Thibodeau praised his team's resilience, emphasizing the importance of moving forward despite the emotional rollercoaster of the playoffs.
Nuggets Edge Out Thunder in Western Conference Thriller
The Western Conference also delivered a nail-biter. Nikola Jokic's dominant performance (42 points, 22 rebounds, 6 assists) for the Denver Nuggets wasn't enough to secure an easy win. Aaron Gordon's game-winning three-pointer in the final seconds secured a hard-fought victory against a formidable Oklahoma City Thunder team. Despite the Thunder’s impressive season and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 33 points, missed free throws and late-game execution proved costly. Coach Mark Daigneault remained positive, highlighting the learning opportunities from the close loss.
What's Next?
Game 2 promises more intense action. The Celtics will aim to even the series on their home court in Boston, while the Thunder will strive for a bounce-back victory at home against the Nuggets. The unpredictable nature of these playoffs makes every game a must-watch!
Game 2 Preview & Betting Odds
Game 2 of Celtics vs. Knicks will be played on [Date] at [Time] ET. The spread and odds vary across sportsbooks, so check your preferred provider for the latest information. This series highlights the competitive balance in the Eastern Conference. Will the Celtics recover from their Game 1 struggles, or will the Knicks continue their unexpected run?
