Are you searching for the answer to "did the Knicks win" in Game 5 against the Celtics? You're not alone—fans everywhere are eager for the latest playoff updates. In this article, we’ll not only answer that question but also break down the pivotal moments of the game, highlight standout performances, and look ahead to what’s next for the New York Knicks in these playoffs.

Did the Knicks Win Game 5?

In an intense Game 5 matchup, the New York Knicks fell to the Boston Celtics, losing 127-102. This result extended the series, pushing the Knicks to refocus as the competition swings back to New York for Game 6. The defeat brought up common questions—did the Knicks win, and what led to the loss?

What Went Wrong for the Knicks?

One of the primary struggles for the Knicks was their perimeter defense. As highlighted in The Athletic’s deep-dive breakdown, New York's 3-point defense was lackluster, allowing Boston to score efficiently from beyond the arc. Slow close-outs, poor communication, and transition lapses gave the Celtics open looks. A quote from Knicks star Jalen Brunson summed up the disappointment: “It’s just … I’m not even going to say it. Just a lot.”

The stats tell the story. Boston made 22 of 49 three-point attempts, tying a franchise playoff record and outscoring the Knicks significantly from deep. Defensive breakdowns were common, making it hard for New York to recover. For a more detailed film review, check out this article on The Athletic.

Celtics Step Up Without Tatum

The Celtics found themselves without their star, Jayson Tatum, who suffered a torn right Achilles tendon. Despite this setback, their defense tightened. Luke Kornet delivered a surprising breakout as a backup big man, blocking seven shots and changing the flow of the game in the second half. Derrick White had a hot shooting night, finishing with 34 points, while Jaylen Brown added a double-double with 26 points and 12 assists. According to ESPN’s coverage, the Celtics’ commitment on defense and depth shined through.

Key Takeaways and What’s Next

Despite the loss and the series now at 3-2, the Knicks still lead. Their resilience has been tested throughout the postseason, often overcoming significant deficits. However, Game 5 highlighted the need to tighten up their defense and improve communication—especially in transition situations—if they want to close out the Celtics in the next matchup. As NBA.com’s post-game analysis notes, the defending champions proved they remain dangerous, even shorthanded.

The next game moves back to Madison Square Garden, giving the Knicks a significant home-court advantage. The pressure is now on them to deliver a win and advance to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Final Thoughts

In summary, did the Knicks win Game 5? No, they suffered a tough defeat at the hands of a motivated Celtics squad. However, the playoff series is far from over. Knicks fans have reason to stay hopeful, but the team must make key adjustments to stay on the road to a deeper playoff run.

Stay tuned for the latest updates and in-depth analysis for each game. For more detailed statistics and commentary, don’t miss the comprehensive coverage from The Athletic, ESPN, and NBA.com.