Boston Celtics rally without Jayson Tatum to crush Knicks and keep NBA Playoff hopes alive

The Boston Celtics delivered a resounding response to adversity in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, overpowering the New York Knicks 127-102 at TD Garden on Wednesday night. Despite the crushing blow of losing All-Star forward Jayson Tatum to a season-ending Achilles injury, the Celtics reignited their NBA playoff campaign, narrowing the series deficit to 3-2 and forcing a crucial Game 6 at Madison Square Garden on Friday.

Derrick White and Jaylen Brown lead Celtics comeback

With the pressure mounting and their backs against the wall, Boston turned to their secondary stars—and they delivered in dominant fashion. Derrick White exploded for 34 points, including 13 in a pivotal third-quarter surge, while Jaylen Brown recorded a near triple-double with 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 12 assists. Their combined 60-point effort electrified the home crowd and sent a clear message: the defending NBA champions are not going down without a fight.

Head coach Joe Mazzulla praised the character and unity of his team after the win.

“Whatever it is that we have to go through, there's no group I'd rather go through it with than these guys,” Mazzulla said. “They made the plays to win tonight and gave us another chance to keep this season alive.”

Luke Kornet’s Breakout Performance Powers Defense

One of the most unexpected—and most impactful—contributions came from 7'1" center Luke Kornet, who anchored Boston’s defense with a career-defining performance. Kornet tallied seven blocks, a steal, and 10 points off the bench, neutralizing the Knicks' interior offense and altering shots at the rim.

With six Celtics scoring in double figures, Boston showcased a balanced and energized offense, overcoming the void left by Tatum and proving their championship depth.

Second-Half Surge Seals the Deal

The first half of the matchup was tightly contested, ending 59-59. But Boston shifted gears in the third quarter, outscoring New York 32-17 behind White’s scoring blitz and a defensive clampdown that stifled the Knicks’ rhythm.

By the start of the fourth quarter, the Celtics had built a commanding 91-76 lead. That advantage ballooned to 23 points with under eight minutes remaining in the final quarter, essentially putting the game out of reach for the visiting Knicks.

Any hope of a Knicks comeback was dashed when Jalen Brunson, the team's floor general, fouled out with 7:19 left in the game after a tough collision with Brown. Brunson finished with 22 points and six assists but shot just 7-of-17 from the field.

Knicks’ Strong Start Fizzles

New York, who had stormed to a nine-point lead in the second quarter, failed to maintain their early momentum. Josh Hart led all Knicks scorers with 24 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 19.

Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau lamented his team’s inability to stay aggressive after their strong start.

“We didn’t play tough with the lead in the second quarter. Then we came out flat in the third—that’s not going to cut it in the playoffs,” Thibodeau said post-game.

Game 6 Looms Large in New York

With the series now at 3-2, all eyes turn to Game 6 at Madison Square Garden. The Celtics, fueled by determination and resilience, will aim to level the series without their star player. Meanwhile, the Knicks will seek to regroup and avoid a Game 7 in Boston.

For the Celtics, the mission is clear: survive and advance. And if Wednesday night is any indication, they’re more than up for the challenge.