The Boston Celtics have extended their playoff journey by securing a victory against the New York Knicks, winning 127-102 on Wednesday night at TD Garden. This win reduces their series deficit to 3-2, with Game 6 scheduled for Friday night in New York.
Despite concerns regarding their ability to win Game 5 after losing leading scorer Jayson Tatum to a torn right Achilles tendon during Monday’s Game 4, Derrick White rose to the occasion, scoring 34 points and hitting 7 of 13 three-pointers.
Jaylen Brown contributed 26 points, 12 assists, and eight rebounds, while Payton Pritchard added 17 points off the bench and Jrue Holiday scored 14 points with seven rebounds. For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson scored 22 points but fouled out with 7:13 left in the game, having been a crucial player for late-game scoring.
Josh Hart stepped up in Brunson’s absence, leading New York with 24 points and seven rebounds, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 19 points and eight rebounds. A notable defensive performance came from reserve center Luke Kornet, who blocked seven shots and scored 10 points on perfect shooting, along with nine rebounds. Kornet’s defensive presence significantly impacted the Knicks’ frontcourt, limiting their scoring and placing additional pressure on Brunson, who could not continue once he fouled out.