Thu May 08 00:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Celtics Collapse in Game 1 Overtime Thriller, Face Must-Win Game 2
**Boston, MA** – The Boston Celtics suffered a stunning 108-105 overtime loss to the New York Knicks in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series Monday night at TD Garden. A record-breaking 45 missed three-pointers plagued the Celtics, who squandered a significant lead. Despite the setback, history suggests a Celtics comeback is likely.
The team boasts a perfect 4-0 record in playoff games following a loss since last season, winning those games by an average of 15 points. This includes bouncing back from Game 1 losses in the Conference Semifinals against the Milwaukee Bucks (2022) and Philadelphia 76ers (2023), both times ultimately winning the series.
Statistics further bolster the Celtics’ chances. They hold a dominant 21-10 all-time record in Game 2s of the Conference Semifinals, including a 16-4 home record. Conversely, the Knicks are 6-20 all-time in Game 2 road games in best-of-seven series.
While the Game 1 loss was undeniably disheartening, the Celtics’ narrow defeat despite poor shooting and the Knicks’ hot three-point performance offers a glimmer of hope. However, a loss in Game 2 on Wednesday would significantly jeopardize their series chances. The Celtics’ historical record in playoff series where they lose the first two home games is a dismal 1-3. The pressure is now on Boston to avoid a potentially series-defining defeat.
First Piper 