Tue May 13 01:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Knicks Steal Game One Against Celtics, Hart’s Leadership Crucial in Upset Victory

**New York, NY** – The New York Knicks pulled off a stunning upset victory in Game 1 of their second-round playoff series against the defending champion Boston Celtics, winning a nail-biting contest despite the Celtics’ record-setting 60 three-point attempts. While the Celtics’ barrage of threes (15 made) and a 20-point deficit for the Knicks seemed to foreshadow a Boston win, the Knicks mounted a furious comeback fueled by clutch plays and the leadership of Josh Hart.

Hart’s contributions extended beyond the box score, proving invaluable in navigating the Celtics’ notorious killer instinct. “I try to get my guys going, help them get easy shots, boost their energy,” Hart explained. “I do that by example, with hustle plays and big moments that get everyone feeling good and the energy up.”

The game was a rollercoaster, with the Celtics’ bench initially outperforming the Knicks’. However, the Knicks’ defense ultimately won the day, particularly the standout performance of Immanuel Quickley, who played 51 minutes and scored 8 crucial points, including a game-icing three-pointer. RJ Barrett also played a significant role, though his three-point shooting was less effective than the team overall (45% from three). Mitchell Robinson also made his presence felt on defense and on the boards (7 rebounds).

Despite the victory, the Knicks’ performance was far from perfect. They missed 14 free throws, and both Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson had subpar shooting performances. The article notes that for the Knicks to win the series, Randle and Bridges need to provide more consistent offense, and the bench needs to step up. The Knicks’ current 1-4 record against the Celtics this season highlights the uphill battle ahead.

The victory was made sweeter by the context of the off-season moves that brought the team together, in particular the trade for Quickley. The article suggests that the timing of this trade was critical, potentially influenced by the near-departure of other players and the unexpected availability of other key players. The success of this trade, it is argued, is a testament to the front office’s shrewd decision-making under pressure. Regardless of the behind-the-scenes maneuvering, the Knicks head home with a crucial Game 1 win, proving they can compete with the best. The series is far from over, but the Knicks have given themselves a fighting chance.

Read More