The New York Knicks have done it. After years of heartbreak, false starts, and rebuilding, the Knicks are officially back in the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000. With an 81-119 win over the Boston Celtics in Game 6 at MSG, New York closed out the series 4–2 in stunning fashion.
Jalen Brunson delivered when it mattered most. The Knicks star scored 23 points and dished out 6 assists. His aggressive drives and consistent shot-making swung momentum back in New York’s favor as the team completely dominated the game.
Brunson has now led the Knicks to one of their best ever playoff runs in the 21st century, proving he’s more than capable of carrying this team deep into the postseason.
Tatum’s Injury Changes Everything for Boston
The Celtics, already trailing in the series, suffered a massive setback when Jayson Tatum tore his Achilles tendon in Game 4. The star forward had dropped 42 points before exiting late in the fourth quarter. Without him in Game 6, Boston lacked its usual offensive flow and leadership, a gap the Knicks exploited.
New York’s Depth and Defense Deliver
While Brunson starred, it wasn’t a one-man show. Mikal Bridges, Karl-Anthony Towns, and OG Anunoby all contributed critical buckets and defensive stops down the stretch. The Knicks’ ability to weather double-digit deficits in multiple games this series has redefined their identity, from perennial underdogs to legitimate contenders.
Knicks vs. Pacers: Breaking Down the Eastern Finals Matchup
Next up: a matchup against the Indiana Pacers, who just eliminated the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers. Game 1 will take place on Wednesday, 21 May at 8 pm at MSG, with the Knicks having home court advantage. The Knicks haven’t made the NBA Finals since 1999, but with momentum, depth, and leadership, fans in NYC believe this could be the year.
As the city lights up in orange and blue, all eyes now turn to what could be the Knicks’ most significant playoff run in a generation.