# Celtics-Knicks: 5 Takeaways as Knicks Push Defending Champions to the Brink
In a thrilling Eastern Conference playoff series that has defied expectations, the New York Knicks have pushed the reigning NBA champions, the Boston Celtics, to the brink of elimination. After a gritty performance in Game 5 at TD Garden, the Knicks now hold a 3-2 series lead and are one win away from securing their place in the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000.
Here are five major takeaways from a game — and a series — that has captivated basketball fans across the country.
1. Jalen Brunson Is Playing Like a Superstar
Jalen Brunson has elevated his game to another level in this series, and Game 5 was no exception. The Knicks’ floor general finished with 36 points, 9 assists, and 5 rebounds, showcasing poise, clutch shooting, and relentless aggression. His ability to penetrate Boston’s defense and create scoring opportunities has been the cornerstone of New York’s offense.
More importantly, Brunson’s leadership has become evident. He’s not just scoring — he’s making everyone around him better. With every game, he’s silencing any lingering doubts about his status as a top-tier point guard in the NBA.
2. Celtics’ Offense Looks Stagnant Without Kristaps Porziņģis
The Celtics have missed big man Kristaps Porziņģis, who has been sidelined with a calf strain since Game 2. Without his scoring, spacing, and rim protection, Boston’s offense has become predictable and easier for the Knicks to contain. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have had to shoulder a heavier load, and while both have delivered solid performances, the team’s depth hasn’t stepped up consistently.
Boston’s spacing issues were particularly glaring in Game 5, where the Knicks collapsed the paint and dared the Celtics to beat them from outside — a strategy that paid off.
3. Tom Thibodeau’s Game Plan Is Paying Off
Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau deserves credit for crafting a masterful defensive game plan. Known for his defensive acumen, Thibodeau has focused on limiting Boston’s transition game and forcing contested perimeter shots. The Knicks have been successful at dictating the pace and keeping the Celtics uncomfortable.
By using a mix of zone and man-to-man defense, and rotating quickly to contest shooters, the Knicks have slowed Boston’s high-octane offense and turned the series into a half-court grind — exactly the style New York thrives in.
4. Depth and Toughness Define This Knicks Team
Despite injuries to key players such as Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson, the Knicks have showcased remarkable depth and mental toughness. Isaiah Hartenstein has stepped up in the paint, providing crucial rebounds and physical defense. Donte DiVincenzo and Josh Hart have contributed key buckets and defensive stops when it mattered most.
It’s this “next man up” mentality that’s helped the Knicks outwork and outhustle a more talented Boston team in multiple games. The grit, determination, and unrelenting effort have become this team’s identity — and it’s winning them games.
5. Game 6 in Madison Square Garden Will Be Electric
With a 3-2 series lead, the Knicks return to Madison Square Garden for a potential closeout Game 6. The Garden is sure to be rocking as fans rally behind a team on the verge of a historic playoff run. For the Celtics, it’s now do-or-die — and they’ll need a near-perfect performance to send the series back to Boston for a decisive Game 7.
For the Knicks, maintaining composure and sticking to what’s worked will be critical. Thibodeau will likely emphasize defense and rebounding, while Brunson and the supporting cast aim to capitalize on their home-court advantage.
Final Thoughts
This series between the Knicks and Celtics has been one of the most compelling matchups of the NBA postseason so far. With the defending champions on the ropes, New York’s blend of toughness, strategy, and timely shot-making has put them in control.
Can the Celtics bounce back and force a Game 7, or will the Knicks complete the upset and move one step closer to the NBA Finals?
All eyes will be on Madison Square Garden for Game 6 — a moment that could define the legacy of this Knicks team and send shockwaves through the league.
Keywords: Knicks vs Celtics 2025, NBA Playoffs 2025, Jalen Brunson, Celtics Game 5 loss, Knicks Game 6 preview, Tom Thibodeau strategy, Boston Celtics injury update, NBA postseason highlights
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