Celtics make NBA playoff history in Game 1 loss to Knicks
Context:
The Boston Celtics experienced a narrow 105-108 overtime defeat against the New York Knicks in Game 1 of their playoff series, despite initially leading after the first two quarters. The Celtics set an unwanted NBA record by missing 45 three-point shots, the most ever in a playoff game, which contributed significantly to their loss. This poor shooting performance places them in a challenging position as they must now respond effectively in the upcoming Game 2. Criticism has been directed at the team's one-dimensional play style under coach Joe Mazzulla, increasing the pressure to adapt their strategy. The outcome of Game 2 will be crucial for the Celtics as they aim to bounce back in the series against the Knicks.
Dive Deeper:
The Boston Celtics lost to the New York Knicks 105-108 in Game 1 of their playoff series, with the game extending into overtime after ending regulation at a 100-100 tie.
Despite a strong start and leading after the first two quarters, the Celtics could not maintain their advantage as the Knicks rallied in the final quarters to push the game into overtime.
The Celtics set a disappointing NBA playoff record by missing 45 three-pointers, marking the highest number of missed threes by any team in a playoff game.
The New York Knicks' comeback and eventual victory have prompted criticisms of the Celtics' strategy, particularly highlighting the team's reliance on three-point shooting.
As the Celtics prepare for Game 2, there is a heightened focus on how they will adjust their tactics to avoid a repeat of the Game 1 outcome and to keep their playoff hopes alive.
The Boston Celtics suffered a 105-108 defeat to the New York Knicks in Game 1 of their series. The playoff round 2 clash was as close as it gets.
It ended all square, 100-100 after four quarters, however, Celtics lost 5-8 during Overtime, meaning they are now in a chasing position.
Joe Mazzulla's side had a strong start, winning the first two quarters. The Knicks, though, made an impressive comeback in the final two. The Celtics set an unwanted playoff record during the game.
The Boston Celtics set an unwanted NBA record during the loss to the New York Knicks
The Boston Celtics missed 45 three-pointers during their clash against the New York Knicks. This is the most by a team in a playoff game. A record the Celtics perhaps wouldn't like to have.The Celtics missed 45 threes tonight.
The most ever in a playoff game. pic.twitter.com/xOwBcvsDBR— StatMuse (@statmuse) May 6, 2025 Interestingly, the top three spots on the list are taken by games from this season only. The Minnesota Timberwolves missed 40 threes during Game 5 of their series against the Los Angeles Lakers. However, they won the Game 103-96.
The Miami Heat missed 39 threes in Game 4 of their series against the Cleveland Cavaliers. They lost the game 83-138.
The Celtics, meanwhile, play the Knicks in Game 2 on May 7. There has been criticism that Joe Mazzulla's side is too one-dimensional. The loss against the Knicks calls for a reaction. It would be interesting to see how the Boston Celtics approach Game 2 and the remainder of the Series against the New York Knicks.
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Celtics' Joe Mazzulla makes Kristaps Porzingis announcement on illness, Game 2 status