The New York Knicks are showing the world that they’re more than just a playoff team—they’re a force to be reckoned with. After taking both Games 1 and 2 in Boston, the Knicks have stunned the Celtics and the rest of the NBA with their gritty, relentless play. New York’s back-to-back victories on the road have set the tone for what’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting series of the 2025 NBA Playoffs.
Game 1 was a statement. In front of a raucous TD Garden crowd, the Knicks never flinched. From the opening tip, New York’s defense was suffocating, making it clear that they weren’t intimidated by Boston’s vaunted offense. Jalen Brunson once again showed why he’s one of the most clutch players in the league, dropping 27 points, controlling the pace, and making crucial shots down the stretch. But it wasn’t just the offense that clicked. The Knicks turned up the heat on the Celtics’ star players, forcing turnovers and limiting their opportunities in transition. Julius Randle, despite some struggles with his shooting, grabbed key rebounds and provided the Knicks with critical second-chance points.
The game was close all the way through, but the Knicks found a way to finish strong. Boston had their chances, but with the game on the line, the Knicks’ defense dug in even deeper. A huge block from Mitchell Robinson and a clutch free throw from Brunson sealed the deal, and the Knicks walked away with a hard-fought 112-108 win. It was the kind of game where every possession mattered, and New York came through when it counted most.
In Game 2, the Knicks were even more impressive. The Celtics came out with a vengeance, hoping to even the series on their home court. But New York’s resilience shone through once again. They withstood a fast start from Boston and responded with a 16-2 run in the second quarter to seize control. Randle found his rhythm, dropping 30 points and 12 rebounds, while Brunson orchestrated the offense like a seasoned veteran. But the real hero of the game was RJ Barrett, who exploded for 26 points, including several clutch shots in the second half. Barrett’s growth this postseason has been a revelation for the Knicks, and his ability to take over stretches of the game has made New York even more dangerous.
Defensively, the Knicks were relentless. They made life difficult for Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, forcing them into tough shots and keeping them from getting into any rhythm. Tatum managed to score 28 points, but it was clear that New York’s defensive schemes were wearing him down, forcing him into contested jumpers and limiting his impact in crunch time.
As the final buzzer sounded on a 109-104 victory, the Knicks had done what few thought was possible: they’d taken both games in Boston and returned home with a 2-0 series lead. The Celtics are reeling, and New York is buzzing with excitement. The series now heads to Madison Square Garden, where the Knicks will look to continue their momentum and push toward a potential sweep.
If the first two games are any indication, the Knicks are ready for the bright lights and high stakes of the postseason. Boston is facing a tough challenge, but the Knicks are making it clear that this series is far from over—and they’re not backing down from anyone.
