Celtics Vs Knicks

As the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks continue their battle in the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals, basketball fans are left wondering what lies ahead in this unpredictable second-round series. The Celtics, widely considered one of the strongest teams in the league and the overwhelming favorite to advance, shockingly stumbled in Game 1. Despite holding a commanding 20-point lead late in the game, Boston failed to close the door, ultimately falling to New York in a dramatic overtime finish. This stunning turn of events has injected new intrigue and uncertainty into a series that many expected the Celtics to dominate.

What made the loss even more baffling was Boston’s historic shooting collapse from beyond the arc. The Celtics missed an NBA-record 45 three-point attempts, a figure that not only underscored their cold streak but also symbolized a complete breakdown in offensive execution. For a team known for its elite perimeter shooting and spacing, the Game 1 performance was entirely out of character. Boston’s strategy, which usually emphasizes spreading the floor and capitalizing on open looks, turned into a liability as the shots simply wouldn’t fall. Each missed attempt seemed to sap more confidence from the players and energy from the building. The poor shooting performance was a key factor in allowing the Knicks to chip away at the lead and force the game into extra time.

The ramifications of Game 1 go far beyond the final score. Injuries added to the Celtics’ woes, casting a shadow over their chances in the remainder of the series. Backup small forward Sam Hauser suffered a significant ankle injury during the contest, severe enough to force him to leave the arena in a walking boot. Hauser has been a reliable rotation piece for the Celtics, especially valued for his perimeter shooting and defensive versatility. Losing him for any length of time not only shortens the bench but also puts more pressure on the starters to carry additional minutes. His injury might force Boston to reshuffle their rotations, lean more heavily on untested players, or even rethink their game plan for upcoming matchups.

Adding to the uncertainty, star big man Kristaps Porzingis exited the game at halftime, continuing a troubling trend of health issues that have plagued him since the regular season. Though the team has remained vague about the nature of his condition—only referring to it as a mysterious viral malady—his absence was clearly felt. Porzingis brings a unique skill set to the Celtics, combining rim protection with the ability to stretch the floor on offense. Without him anchoring the paint or spacing the defense with his shooting, Boston loses a critical two-way presence. His status moving forward will be a major storyline, as the Celtics will struggle to reach their full potential without his contributions on both ends of the floor.

These developments have prompted both concern and speculation among Celtics fans and analysts alike. What had seemed like a straightforward path to the Eastern Conference Finals is now littered with obstacles. How will the team respond? Will the coaching staff make necessary adjustments? And can the Celtics regain their composure and reassert their dominance, or has the series tilted in the Knicks’ favor?

These were some of the questions tackled in a recent episode of the CLNS Media podcast “Still Poddable,” where hosts Brian Robb, Sam Packard, and Jay King delved into the unexpected twists of Game 1 and explored what fans should be watching for as the series progresses. The trio emphasized that while the Game 1 result was undoubtedly disappointing, it wasn’t necessarily cause for panic—yet. They pointed to Boston’s overall talent advantage, experience, and depth as reasons for optimism, but also acknowledged that the team cannot afford another mental or physical letdown if they hope to advance.

One area the hosts discussed in depth was Boston’s decision-making and shot selection during their Game 1 collapse. Despite their poor shooting night, the Celtics continued to hoist up threes at a record-setting rate, seemingly unwilling—or perhaps unable—to adjust their offensive approach. This raises questions about both in-game strategy and leadership. Why did the Celtics persist with a perimeter-heavy attack when it clearly wasn’t working? Should the coaching staff have called for more drives to the basket or midrange looks to stem the tide? The failure to adapt was as concerning as the missed shots themselves.

The podcast also explored the psychological aspect of the loss. Blowing a 20-point lead in a playoff game can be mentally destabilizing, especially for a team with championship aspirations. How will the Celtics respond to this adversity? The hosts stressed the importance of veteran leadership in times like these. Players such as Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Jrue Holiday will need to steady the ship and set the tone for how the team bounces back. The pressure is now on not just to win, but to demonstrate resilience and composure under the bright playoff lights.

Another focal point of the discussion was the impact of injuries and how the Celtics might compensate for the loss of Hauser and potentially Porzingis. While Boston’s roster is deep, replacing those specific skill sets isn’t straightforward. Hauser’s absence removes a key floor-spacer and dependable bench scorer, while Porzingis’ status is far more consequential. His unique blend of size and shooting is not easily replicated, and his presence changes how opponents defend Boston. The team could look to lean more on Al Horford, but at 38, he must be used judiciously. Luke Kornet and Xavier Tillman may also see expanded roles, but relying heavily on reserve big men in the playoffs comes with obvious limitations.

Moreover, the Knicks deserve credit for their part in Boston’s unraveling. Led by the relentless play of Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle, New York showed grit, determination, and the poise needed to pull off the upset. Their defensive strategy successfully disrupted Boston’s rhythm, forcing contested shots and capitalizing on transition opportunities. Tom Thibodeau’s squad demonstrated once again that they are not to be underestimated, regardless of seeding or expectations. The Knicks' physical style of play and tenacity on the boards could continue to be a problem for Boston if not addressed.

In light of Game 1, fans should pay close attention to several developing themes. First, can Boston rediscover its offensive identity? The Celtics are at their best when they play with pace, share the ball, and trust their system. Re-establishing that rhythm will be crucial in reasserting control of the series. Secondly, health is now a central concern. Will Porzingis return in time to impact the series? Is Hauser’s injury less serious than feared? The answers to those questions may well determine how far the Celtics can go. Third, look for adjustments—both tactical and rotational. Will Joe Mazzulla tweak the offensive scheme or shuffle lineups to better match up with New York’s physicality?

As the series unfolds, emotions will run high, and the pressure will mount with each possession. Every game becomes a test of will and execution. The Celtics now face the challenge of living up to expectations under a microscope, with fans and media scrutinizing every move. They still have the tools to win the series, but Game 1 was a reminder that talent alone does not guarantee victory. The mental aspect of the playoffs—focus, discipline, resilience—can be just as important as physical skill.

For Boston, the next step is to respond with urgency and purpose. They must channel the disappointment of their opening loss into motivation, learning from their mistakes rather than dwelling on them. Game 2 will offer a critical opportunity to reset the tone of the series and reassert their standing as a championship contender. A convincing win could restore confidence and momentum, while another misstep would only deepen doubts and open the door wider for the Knicks to pull off a stunning upset.

At this point in the playoffs, margins are razor-thin, and the line between success and failure is defined by execution in critical moments. The Celtics must now prove they can rise to the occasion, overcome adversity, and respond with the kind of performance worthy of their reputation. The Knicks have made their statement. Now it’s Boston’s turn to answer.

As fans continue to monitor the fallout from Game 1, they’ll be watching for signs of leadership, adaptability, and toughness from their team. Can the Celtics clean up their shot selection? Will the ball movement improve? Will the defense tighten up in key moments? And most importantly, will this group demonstrate the resilience necessary to weather the storm and keep their championship dreams alive?

This series, which once seemed like a foregone conclusion, has suddenly become a captivating chess match. Every adjustment, substitution, and in-game decision now carries significant weight. For Celtics supporters, the road forward will be filled with drama, tension, and hopefully, redemption. For the Knicks, the opportunity to shock the basketball world is real—and very much alive. And for the rest of us, all that’s left is to watch, wait, and witness how it all unfolds.