Celtics Edge Knicks in Overtime Classic at The Garden

In what felt like a potential playoff preview, the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics battled fiercely in an electrifying overtime showdown at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night. Unfortunately for the Knicks, the outcome was all too familiar—another narrow loss to the East-leading Celtics, this time by a final score of 119-117.

The game featured numerous big moments, lead changes, and a playoff-like atmosphere. Kristaps Porzingis, the former Knick who is now a Celtics big man, delivered a crucial three-pointer from 30 feet out with 40 seconds remaining in overtime, giving Boston the final edge. Porzingis torched his old team for 34 points and matched a career-high with eight made three-pointers, silencing the crowd during crunch time.

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Jayson Tatum also rose to the occasion, finishing with 32 points and hitting a clutch three-pointer with under three seconds left in regulation to tie the game at 101, sending it into overtime.

For the Knicks, Karl-Anthony Towns continued to demonstrate his value in orange and blue. The All-Star big man matched Porzingis with 34 points and added 14 rebounds in a standout performance. Jalen Brunson contributed 27 points and 10 assists, doing his best to orchestrate New York’s offense down the stretch.

Despite the loss, the Knicks showcased great grit, battling back multiple times and responding to Boston’s runs with poise. However, their efforts fell short as the Celtics completed a season sweep of New York with a 4-0 record.

This victory secured Boston the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference and extended their road winning streak to nine games. Meanwhile, the Knicks are still in a strong position to claim the No. 3 seed, but their path through the playoffs may once again involve facing Boston.

With only a couple of games left in the regular season, Tuesday’s thrilling matchup could be a preview of a much larger stage come May. One thing is certain: if these teams meet again, it will be must-watch basketball.