The Knicks vs Boston Celtics timeline is one of the NBA’s most storied rivalries. From epic playoff battles to dramatic upsets, these two teams have forged unforgettable memories for basketball fans. The 2025 playoffs marked a pivotal chapter, echoing decades of history while pushing both franchises into new territory.

Early Rivalry: Setting the Stage for Celtics and Knicks

The New York Knicks and Boston Celtics have faced off in crucial games since the NBA's earliest days. The Celtics, powered by legendary players like Bill Russell and Larry Bird, often held the upper hand during the championship-rich 1960s to 1980s. The rivalry intensified whenever the Knicks’ grit challenged Celtics’ dominance, especially in high-stakes playoff showdowns. These decades saw iconic performances, raucous crowds, and shifting tides that set the foundation for modern clashes.

Playoff Clashes and Signature Moments

Playoff encounters have defined the Knicks vs Boston Celtics timeline. In 2013, a resurgent Knicks team knocked out Boston in the first round, marking a rare postseason win for New York. However, the Celtics rebuilt quickly, returning to contention with stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Each series has produced hard-fought battles, highlight-reel plays, and, at times, bitter disappointments for both sides.

2025: The Playoff Showdown and Tatum’s Injury

The 2025 Eastern Conference Semifinals brought the rivalry to a dramatic peak. The Celtics, fresh off a historic season, met a determined Knicks squad. Boston led by superstars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, fought doggedly. The Knicks, however, seized momentum and surged to a 3-1 series lead after stifling Boston in key moments. The series turned dramatically in Game 4, when Jayson Tatum suffered a devastating Achilles injury late in the fourth quarter.

According to NBA.com’s coverage, Tatum’s rupture left the Celtics reeling. The Celtics announced Tatum would need surgery and miss the remainder of the playoffs, with his return date unknown. This injury dramatically shifted the series—and the Celtics' near future—as Tatum had been the driving force, averaging more than 28 points and 11 rebounds per game during the postseason.

For more on the impact and medical insights, CBS Boston reports the recovery timeline could range from 9–12 months. The Celtics now face a massive hurdle trying to mount a comeback without their All-Star leader, with the Knicks poised to make history.

Ripple Effects: What’s Next for Both Teams?

Beyond the immediate playoff implications, the 2025 series altered the Knicks vs Boston Celtics timeline. The Celtics, who entered the postseason hoping for back-to-back championships, are now confronting uncertainty on several fronts. Their core, once built for sustained success, may face changes due to salary cap pressures and new ownership. As detailed by ESPN’s analysis, a loss to the Knicks could trigger massive offseason repercussions, with the team’s payroll and future direction under review.

The Knicks, on the other hand, are in the ascendancy. Their resilient play and timely defense have put them close to eliminating the defending champions, raising hopes for a breakthrough run and shifting the rivalry’s balance.

Conclusion: A Timeline Still Being Written

The latest chapter in the Knicks vs Boston Celtics timeline is filled with drama, heartbreak, and new possibilities. Game 4 of the 2025 playoffs will be remembered for Jayson Tatum’s valiant effort and the tough blow that reshaped Boston’s immediate future. As the Knicks push forward and the Celtics regroup, this rivalry proves once again why it holds such a special place in NBA history. Basketball fans everywhere will keep watching as the next matches add even more meaning to this ever-evolving timeline.