Knicks Advance to Eastern Conference Finals with Dominating Win Over Celtics
NEW YORK — The New York Knicks made a triumphant return to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years, decisively defeating the Boston Celtics 119-81 in Game 6 on Friday night. This victory not only ended the Celtics’ one-year reign as NBA champions but also marked a significant achievement for the franchise, which last reached this stage in 2000.
Star players Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby each contributed 23 points, while Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns added 22 and 21 points, respectively. The Knicks displayed remarkable offensive prowess, leading by as many as 41 points, ultimately showcasing their largest postseason margin of victory.
The night also served as a bittersweet farewell for the Celtics, who were without their leading scorer, Jayson Tatum, after he suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon in Game 4. Despite a strong start to the series, the Celtics struggled to maintain momentum, with Jaylen Brown scoring 20 points in Game 6.
After a sluggish start, the Knicks found their rhythm, initiating a substantial surge in the second quarter. Key moments included a 13-3 run that pushed their lead to 49-27, highlighted by a stunning blocked shot from guard Deuce McBride. The crowd at Madison Square Garden erupted, reveling in an electric atmosphere reminiscent of the franchise’s storied past.
Following the game, celebrity fans, including Ben Stiller and Lenny Kravitz, joined in the celebration as Knicks fans marked this significant milestone. With the series victory, the Knicks now prepare to face the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals, a rematch from their last appearance in 2000. Game 1 is set for Wednesday night in New York, igniting hopes of a championship return for the Knicks after a long 23-year drought.
Story by Brian Mahoney
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