Thu May 08 07:06:40 UTC 2025: ## Knicks Steal Game 2, Take 2-0 Series Lead Against Celtics

**New York, NY** – In a stunning upset, the New York Knicks defeated the defending NBA champion Boston Celtics 91-90 in Game 2 of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series, taking a commanding 2-0 lead. The Knicks overcame a 20-point deficit, fueled by Josh Hart’s game-high 23 points and clutch free throws from Jalen Brunson in the final seconds.

The Celtics, who led by as many as 20 points in the third quarter, appeared to be cruising to victory. However, a remarkable 21-2 run by the Knicks in the fourth quarter swung the momentum. Brunson’s two free throws with 12.7 seconds remaining proved to be the difference, sealing the win after a defensive stop by Mikal Bridges on Jayson Tatum.

Karl-Anthony Towns contributed a double-double for the Knicks with 21 points and 17 rebounds, while Bridges added 14 crucial fourth-quarter points. Brunson finished with 17 points and 7 assists. Despite Tatum’s 13 points and 14 rebounds, the Celtics’ offense sputtered, shooting a dismal 25% from three-point range (10-of-40). Derrick White and Jaylen Brown each scored 20 points for Boston, but it wasn’t enough.

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged his team’s shortcomings, highlighting their inability to execute down the stretch. He emphasized the need for a complete 48-minute effort going forward. Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau praised his team’s resilience, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure.

Game 3 will take place on Saturday in New York, giving the Knicks a chance to further solidify their series lead. The Celtics will need to significantly improve their shooting and overall execution to avoid falling into a deep hole in the series.

**In other news:** The Oklahoma City Thunder evened their Western Conference Semifinals series against the Denver Nuggets with a dominant 149-106 victory in Game 2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 34 points, as Oklahoma City set a franchise playoff record for points in a single game. Nikola Jokic, Denver’s MVP, was limited to 17 points before fouling out.

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