The Boston Celtics vs Knicks match player stats from Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals drew enormous attention—and for good reason. Both teams brought intensity, drama, and standout individual performances to TD Garden. The Celtics stormed to an early 20-point lead, but the Knicks clawed back, forcing overtime and ultimately securing a 108-105 victory.

First Half: Celtics Surge, Knicks Stay Close

Boston started strong with a lineup featuring Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, and Kristaps Porzingis. Tatum quickly made his presence felt, surpassing Paul Pierce to claim fifth place on the Celtics' all-time playoff scoring list. By halftime, Tatum led all scorers with 13 points, while Jaylen Brown caught fire with 14 points, 13 of those coming in the second quarter. The Celtics showcased team effort as Payton Pritchard chipped in 13 points off the bench, helping the hosts build a 16-point halftime cushion.

Despite Boston's surge, New York refused to fade. Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns both got into early foul trouble but kept the Knicks competitive. Jalen Brunson, the Knicks’ offensive engine, remained patient and efficient, keeping his team within striking distance.

For an in-depth timeline and breakdown of key moments, read the full Celtics-Knicks recap at NBC Sports Boston.

Second Half: Knicks Rally and Take Control

The third quarter saw the Knicks chipping away at the deficit. OG Anunoby and Brunson spearheaded a fierce comeback, outscoring Boston 30-23 in the period. The Celtics struggled from beyond the arc, finishing a record-setting 15-for-60 from three-point range. Their outside shooting woes proved costly as New York ramped up the pressure.

Jalen Brunson stole the show in the fourth quarter, delivering 11 straight points, including clutch three-pointers. OG Anunoby matched Brunson with 29 points. Karl-Anthony Towns added a double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds, helping New York erase the Celtics’ lead. Boston’s defense, anchored by Jrue Holiday and Derrick White, fought back late, with White sinking a big three to briefly retake the lead. However, the Knicks held firm, outscoring Boston by double digits in the final period.

Overtime Thriller: Knicks Prevail

With the score knotted at 100 heading into overtime, pressure mounted. Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum led the way for Boston, finishing with 23 points each. Derrick White and Jrue Holiday provided key contributions on both ends in crunch time. Ultimately, the Celtics’ shooting struggles persisted, and the Knicks capitalized, edging Boston 8-5 in overtime to steal Game 1 on the road.

Standout Player Stats and Key Numbers

• New York Knicks:

  • Jalen Brunson: 29 points (game-high), explosive in crunch time
  • OG Anunoby: 29 points, consistent threat offensively
  • Karl-Anthony Towns: 14 points, 13 rebounds (double-double)

• Boston Celtics:

  • Jayson Tatum: 23 points, 13 rebounds (led team in scoring)
  • Jaylen Brown: 23 points, late-game scoring
  • Derrick White: Clutch shooting, timely defense
  • Payton Pritchard: Impactful off the bench with 13 points

Kristaps Porzingis exited early due to illness and did not score, affecting Boston’s rotation and rim protection (latest on Porzingis' illness).

Holiday, Brown Return to Form

A key storyline was the healthy return of Jrue Holiday and Jaylen Brown. Holiday, who averaged 16 points on 67% shooting against the Knicks in the regular season, suited up after missing three games with a strained hamstring (Celtics' Jrue Holiday cleared from injury report). His defensive pairing with Derrick White was crucial in Boston’s late-game rally. Brown, also off the injury list, looked explosive and contributed meaningfully throughout the match.

For more on Holiday’s road back from injury, see ESPN’s coverage.

What’s Next for the Series?

This Celtics vs Knicks playoff matchup promises more drama. Boston hopes to settle their shooting and rediscover their early defensive rhythm. New York, fueled by Brunson and Anunoby, has taken the initial edge but knows each game can swing on the smallest details. Game 2 will be pivotal for momentum and morale.

Conclusion

The boston celtics vs knicks match player stats tell the story of a game filled with swings, comebacks, and individual brilliance. From Tatum’s leadership and Brown’s scoring to Brunson’s heroics and Anunoby’s consistency, both teams left everything on the floor. Stay tuned for more thrilling playoff moments as this classic NBA rivalry continues to unfold.