The Boston Celtics staved off elimination in front of their home crowd at TD Garden, securing a much-needed win in Game 5 against the New York Knicks. With the series now at 3-2, Boston proved they aren’t ready to back down, even with franchise cornerstone Jayson Tatum sidelined by a season-ending injury.
Derrick White stepped up in Tatum’s absence, delivering a standout performance with 34 points to lead the Celtics. Jaylen Brown was equally crucial, contributing 26 points, eight rebounds, and an impressive 12 assists to keep Boston’s championship dreams alive.
The Celtics now turn their focus to Game 6, set for Friday, May 16, at Madison Square Garden. Facing a must-win situation, Boston needs a victory to force a decisive Game 7 and continue their quest to defend their NBA title.
Tatum’s injury cast a shadow over the series, with many questioning whether Boston could regroup without their star player. While the team has not provided a detailed recovery timeline, they remain optimistic about his return next season.
White and Brown answered the call, with significant help from Sixth Man of the Year Payton Pritchard, who came off the bench to score 17 points, grab five rebounds, and dish out three assists. Pritchard’s contributions highlighted a deep team effort that Boston will need to replicate moving forward.
On the Knicks’ side, Jalen Brunson struggled to find the same form he showed in Game 4 at Madison Square Garden, where he tallied 33 points and 12 assists. Brunson was limited by foul trouble, finishing with 20 points as the second-leading scorer behind Josh Hart, who paced New York with 22 points.
SURVEY Who do you think will win the series?
Who do you think will win the series?
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