Game 6 Domination at Madison Square Garden

The Knicks-0.html target=_blank class=infotextkey>New York Knicks secured their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2000 with a decisive 119-81 victory over the Celtics-0.html target=_blank class=infotextkey>Boston Celtics. This 38-point triumph at Madison Square Garden stands as the largest postseason win in Knicks history, effectively ending the Celtics' championship defense.

Complete Team Performance

New York's victory showcased remarkable balance with four starters scoring 21+ points. Jalen Brunson led the charge with 23 points and 6 assists, supported by Karl-Anthony Towns' dominant 21-point, 17-rebound double-double. Defensive standout OG Anunoby contributed 23 points while Josh Hart recorded a rare triple-double (10 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists).

Celtics Struggle Without Tatum

Boston's playoff run collapsed without injured star Jayson Tatum, who missed the final three games with a wrist sprain. Despite Jaylen Brown's 20-point effort in Game 6, the Celtics shot just 36.8% from the field and committed 17 turnovers. Role players failed to step up, highlighting Tatum's crucial importance to Boston's offense.

Eastern Conference Finals Preview

Knicks vs Pacers: Renewing a Classic Rivalry

New York will face the Indiana Pacers in a rematch of 1990s playoff battles. The Pacers advanced by eliminating top-seeded Cleveland in five games, setting up their second consecutive ECF appearance. Game 1 tips off Wednesday at Madison Square Garden.

Key Matchups to Watch

Indiana's backcourt duo of Tyrese Haliburton (18.7 PPG playoffs) and Bennedict Mathurin (16.3 PPG) will challenge New York's defensive schemes. The Knicks counter with their trio of Brunson, Towns, and Anunoby - all averaging over 20 PPG this postseason.

Historical Context

This series marks New York's chance to end their 25-year conference finals drought under coach Tom Thibodeau. The Pacers aim to prove their 2024 playoff success wasn't a fluke. Both franchises last met in the ECF during the 2000 season, when current Knicks president Leon Rose was still an NBA agent.