In a game where the Boston Celtics (8-2) struggled from beyond the arc, they still managed to secure a 114-98 victory over the New York Knicks (5-5) at home.
Jayson Tatum showcased his scoring prowess, contributing 35 points with a remarkable 17-point outburst in the crucial fourth quarter.
Despite a shaky start with multiple missed 3-point attempts, Tatum’s late-game performance proved decisive. He sunk four consecutive 3-pointers, including a contested shot that resulted in a four-point play, sealing the victory for the Celtics after the Knicks narrowed the gap to three points.
Joining the offensive showcase, Jaylen Brown added 22 points, while Kristaps Porzingis, facing his former team, contributed 21 points.
On the opposing side, Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 26 points, and Julius Randle recorded 25 points along with nine rebounds.
Notably absent for the Knicks was RJ Barrett, sidelined due to a migraine headache, disrupting their rhythm after a three-game winning streak.
Despite an early eight-point lead in the second quarter, the Celtics closed the gap, heading into halftime with a score of 53-52.
Although the Knicks made a late push in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to 91-88, Tatum responded with a critical step-back 3-pointer, extending Boston’s lead.
Jrue Holiday, reaching a career milestone of 15,000 points with a third-quarter 3-pointer, further solidified the Celtics’ victory with another crucial shot, securing a 10-point lead.
