Jalen Brunson and the Knicks Stun Celtics Again, Taking 2-0 Series Lead

In a thrilling showdown at TD Garden, the New York Knicks once again demonstrated their resilience by overcoming a 20-point deficit to defeat the Boston Celtics 91-90, taking a commanding 2-0 lead in their Eastern Conference semifinal series. The star of the night was Knicks' All-Star point guard Jalen Brunson, who, despite struggling early with just eight points through three quarters, stepped up in crunch time, scoring seven points in the final minutes to secure the win. His clutch free throws and decisive plays down the stretch have cemented his reputation as a 'Captain Clutch.' Coach Tom Thibodeau praised Brunson's innate ability to shine when it matters most, highlighting that this performance was expected from a player renowned for his late-game prowess. Brunson's performance in the postseason has been remarkable, as he consistently leads in fourth-quarter scoring, a trend that has significantly contributed to the Knicks' success thus far. The Knicks made history by becoming the first NBA team to erase a 20-point deficit in consecutive playoff games, showcasing their tenacity against the defending champions. A crucial factor in this victory was Mikal Bridges, who, after a quiet start, ignited in the fourth quarter, scoring all 14 of his points in that period, capped off with a game-winning defensive play. Meanwhile, the Celtics' struggles continue, highlighted by poor shooting percentages in clutch situations, raising questions about their mental fortitude and ability to close out games effectively. As the series heads to Madison Square Garden for Game 3, the Celtics will need to regroup quickly to avoid falling into a dire 3-0 hole. The upcoming games promise high stakes as the Knicks look to maintain their momentum and the Celtics fight to reclaim their dominance. This series could redefine legacies for both teams, making the next match crucial not only for the scoreboard but for their psychological resilience and strategic adjustments moving forward.