Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla reveals what Boston did to win Game 3 vs Knicks

The Boston Celtics secured a crucial road win over the New York Knicks in Game 3 of the 2024–25 NBA Playoffs, cutting the series deficit to 2–1. Head coach Joe Mazzulla shed light on the team’s strategy that helped Boston bounce back in the series.

“One man’s trash is another’s treasure,” the saying goes—and for Joe Mazzulla, that treasure came in the form of exploiting Knicks center Mitchell Robinson. Boston made a concerted effort in the second half to repeatedly foul Robinson and disrupt New York’s offensive rhythm.

“Just process over results,” Mazzulla said via SNY Knicks on X (formerly Twitter). “You always stick to the process of what you think gives you the best chance to win on that possession and to win the game.”

The strategy paid off. Robinson was limited to just 6 points, 8 rebounds, and 1 assist. More importantly, the Knicks’ bench was neutralized, unable to close the gap as Boston maintained control throughout the second half. Expect the Celtics to stick with this tactical approach moving forward.

Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks drives to the basket against Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics in Game Two of the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Jaylen Brown delivers strong message after Game 3 win

Rather than celebrate, Jaylen Brown kept his focus locked in after the blowout win. Speaking to reporters postgame, the Celtics star sent a direct message that emphasized the team’s playoff mindset. “You gotta beat us four times—that’s what it comes down to,” Brown said via the NBA’s X account. “There’s a lot of basketball to be played.”

see also

Former Celtics player Grant Williams weighs in on Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum after back-to-back losses

Brown backed up his words with a strong all-around performance, finishing with 19 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block in 36 minutes. He was one of five Celtics to score in double figures in a well-rounded team effort.

Tatum rises to the occasion—and the record books

Jayson Tatum returned to top form in Game 3, not only powering Boston to victory but also making NBA playoff history. Tatum surpassed Kobe Bryant on the league’s all-time playoff scoring list for players under 28 years old. With his Game 3 stat line, Tatum moved into second place with 2,892 playoff points—trailing only LeBron James, who holds the top spot with 3,275.

After squandering 20-point leads in each of the first two games, the Celtics faced the very real threat of falling into a 3–0 series hole—an all-but-fatal position in NBA history. But Tatum’s leadership and production ensured Boston stayed alive and regained momentum heading into Game 4.