Sports
Celtics Game 1 OT Thriller: Fall at TD Garden After Missed Chances
May
The Celtics Game 1 OT Thriller stunned TD Garden as the Knicks completed a comeback to win 108–105 in overtime. Despite leading by 16 points at halftime, Boston faltered when it mattered most.
Let’s break down how this Celtics Game 1 OT thriller slipped away, from key plays to missed shots, and look ahead at what Boston must fix before Game 2.
From Control to Collapse in This Celtics Game 1 OT Thriller
Through two quarters, Boston dominated. A 35-point second quarter gave them a 61–45 lead at halftime. But from that point on, the offense stagnated while the Knicks found their rhythm.
Our Game 1 preview highlighted Boston’s need for late-game poise—something they lacked when it mattered most.
Stat Breakdown by Quarter
Boston led 61–45 at halftime but was outscored 63–44 the rest of the way. In overtime, the Knicks edged out Boston 8–5, sealing the game with clutch shots and better execution.
Turning Points in the Final Minutes
With 45 seconds left, a Jayson Tatum turnover led to a fast-break layup. Two missed free throws in OT and a critical defensive miscommunication gave the Knicks the breathing room they needed.
Tatum, Brown, and the Burden of Clutch Play
Tatum finished with 44 points and 16 rebounds, but scored just 6 points in the final quarter and OT combined. Jaylen Brown added 23, yet both stars failed to close when it counted.
This contrasted sharply with expectations set in our Tatum vs Brunson showdown, where Boston’s star power was predicted to prevail.
Tatum’s Scoring Burst vs. Brunson’s Closer Mentality
Jalen Brunson also scored 29, including the go-ahead bucket in overtime. While Tatum was dominant early, Brunson had the final word.
Supporting Cast Faded Under Pressure
Derrick White added 19 points but missed a key shot in OT. Jrue Holiday had 16 but committed 3 costly turnovers. Boston’s bench combined for just 24 points, with little impact late.
Knicks’ Execution and Defensive Adjustments
New York ramped up their defense in the second half, forcing Boston into bad shots and rushing possessions. OG Anunoby matched Brunson with 29 points, while Josh Hart and Miles McBride sparked energy.
Brunson’s Control and Anunoby’s Breakout
OG’s stretch in the third quarter pulled the Knicks back into the game. Brunson calmly ran the pick-and-roll while creating space for shooters.
Bench Boost: McBride and Hart Spark Energy
McBride’s 11 points off the bench, including a key three in OT, helped shift momentum. Hart grabbed 11 rebounds and made hustle plays Boston didn’t match.
Shooting Struggles and Lost Possessions
Boston shot just 35.1% from the field and 25% from beyond the arc (15/60). Despite grabbing 59 rebounds (vs. Knicks’ 49), the Celtics lost the turnover battle and committed 13 mistakes.
Three-Point Inefficiency Cost Boston the Win
The Knicks hit 17 threes at a 45.9% clip compared to Boston’s 25%. Hauser went scoreless, and Pritchard managed just 13 points in 24 minutes.
Second-Chance Fights Were Lost
Boston had more rebounds, but New York made better use of theirs. Karl-Anthony Towns posted 13 boards, outmuscling Porziņģis late.
What’s Next After the Celtics Game 1 OT Thriller
Boston must bounce back. The homecourt isn’t enough if closing tactics stay flawed. Offensive execution and bench contributions must improve for Game 2.
Fixing the Clutch Offense
More off-ball movement is needed. Boston relied too heavily on isolation. Mazzulla must design sets that get easy looks late.
Rotations and Minutes: A Call for More Horford?
Al Horford brought steadiness, scoring 7 points and grabbing 7 rebounds. His veteran presence might be needed more down the stretch.
Full Recap and Stats Resource
For extended stats and game tracking, visit this comprehensive Knicks vs Celtics Game 1 Live Blog from The Athletic.
Stay Loud, Stay Green: Boston Still Believes
Game 1 was a bitter pill—but this series is far from over. Boston fans are showing out loud, from TD Garden to social media, and staying ready in style.
Rep your pride with exclusive Boston Celtics Apparel and back the team as they aim to even the series.
