Jalen Brunson powers Knicks to a Game 4 comeback vs. Celtics. Tatum injured late as New York goes 3-1 up, one win from first East Finals in 25 years.
In a Madison Square Garden pulsating with energy and teetering on the edge of collective euphoria, the New York Knicks pulled off a dramatic comeback in Game 4, turning an 11-point halftime deficit into a season-defining victory. What began as a nightmare resembling Game 3 soon transformed into a statement win, as Tom Thibodeau’s squad surged in the second half to take a commanding 3-1 lead over the Boston Celtics in their Eastern Conference Semifinal series.
First Half Struggles, Second Half Surge
New York looked shell-shocked in the first two quarters, trailing 59-48 at the break and showing alarming signs of a repeat collapse. Boston controlled the tempo early, capitalizing on defensive lapses and cold Knicks shooting. But the second half flipped the script entirely.
Fueled by relentless drives and an attacking mindset, the Knicks dominated the paint with a staggering 64-32 advantage in points scored inside. A furious third-quarter rally shifted momentum, and in the final stretch, a 14-2 run sealed the victory and sent MSG into a frenzy.
Brunson Bounces Back in MVP Form
All eyes were on Jalen Brunson after his underwhelming Game 3 showing, and the Knicks’ star answered emphatically. He poured in 39 points—26 of them in the second half—along with 12 assists and 5 rebounds, orchestrating New York’s comeback with poise and fire. It was a vintage performance by the former Maverick, underscoring his importance as the heartbeat of this Knicks team.
Supporting Cast Shines Bright
Beyond Brunson’s brilliance, the rest of the roster stepped up in a big way. Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns each contributed 23 points, with Towns also grabbing 11 rebounds and playing a physical brand of basketball in the paint. OG Anunoby chipped in 20 points and delivered a defensive masterclass, locking down Boston’s perimeter threats and sparking key transition plays.
Tatum’s Heroics Overshadowed by Scare
Jayson Tatum did everything he could to keep the Celtics alive, dropping 42 points with 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Despite solid efforts from Derrick White (23 points) and Jaylen Brown (20 points), it was Tatum who carried Boston on his shoulders. But his night—and possibly Boston’s postseason hopes—took a grim turn late in the fourth.
With just under three minutes to play and the Celtics trailing 111-104, Tatum landed awkwardly on his right foot while attempting to intercept a pass. He immediately crumpled to the floor clutching his ankle, and had to be escorted off the court in a wheelchair—a heartbreaking sight for the defending Eastern Conference champions.
One Win Away from History
With a 3-1 series lead and Game 5 looming, the Knicks stand just one win away from their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2000. For a franchise—and a fanbase—starved for postseason glory, Game 4 felt like more than a win. It felt like destiny stirring at the Garden.
