The New York Knicks return to Madison Square Garden with a commanding 2-0 lead in their Eastern Conference Semifinal series against the top-seeded Boston Celtics, fueled by a combination of gritty defense, disciplined execution, and a growing belief that they belong among the NBA’s elite. After being swept by the Celtics during the regular season and entering the series as significant underdogs, the Knicks have flipped the narrative behind Jalen Brunson’s leadership and Tom Thibodeau’s unrelenting game plan. Brunson, playing with confidence and control, has averaged over 30 points per game in the playoffs while efficiently managing the offense and delivering in clutch moments. But it’s been the team’s collective effort, particularly on defense, that has made the difference—OG Anunoby’s tenacity on the perimeter has disrupted Boston’s offensive flow, while Josh Hart has contributed across the board with rebounding, hustle plays, and timely scoring. Donte DiVincenzo has provided critical spacing with his shooting, and Isaiah Hartenstein and Mitchell Robinson have handled the interior with physicality and smart rotations. The Knicks’ ability to limit Boston’s three-point attempts and force contested shots has paid dividends, and their energy in transition has created easy points against a typically disciplined Celtics defense. Despite struggling at home earlier in the playoffs—losing two of three at MSG—New York enters Game 3 with the opportunity to erase those blemishes and capture full control of the series.

The Knicks are determined to replicate their road-game mentality by focusing on effort, composure, and execution rather than being swayed by the electric home crowd. Thibodeau has emphasized the importance of staying focused and not letting Boston’s talent dictate tempo or mindset. The Knicks also feel slighted by oddsmakers who continue to list them as underdogs despite their commanding series lead, and that perceived disrespect has only added fuel to their fire. With the Garden expected to be at its loudest and most intense, the Knicks have a chance to feed off the atmosphere and deliver another statement performance that would push them to a 3-0 advantage—historically an insurmountable lead in NBA playoff series. Depth has also been key, with contributions from reserves like Alec Burks and Miles McBride helping maintain defensive intensity and offensive continuity. Every player on the roster has bought into Thibodeau’s system, which emphasizes team defense, unselfish offense, and a mentally tough approach to every possession. If the Knicks can maintain their composure, continue to dominate the effort battles, and limit Boston’s stars from finding rhythm, they’ll be in position not only to win Game 3 but to cement their status as the most dangerous underdog in this year’s postseason. The opportunity to push the Celtics to the brink on home court is massive, and the Knicks appear locked in, determined to capitalize on a moment that could redefine their franchise’s trajectory.