Celtics Prepare for Knicks Amid Injury Concerns

BOSTON (AP) — The Boston Celtics are gearing up to face the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals on Monday. Despite a sweeping four-game victory over the Orlando Magic in the first round, Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla believes past success doesn’t guarantee future results.

“Every game takes on a life of its own,” Mazzulla said in a press conference. “Right now, the series is 0-0. It’s two good teams getting ready to play.”

The Celtics will need to focus on distinct challenges presented by the Knicks. While the Celtics held the 27th-best offensive rating during their last series, New York boasts the fifth-best rating in the league at 117.3.

<p“Great coach, great depth, great team,” said Mazzulla, highlighting the Knicks’ impressive season. The Knicks finished the regular season with a record of 51-31, indicating potential for a tough competition.

Jalen Brunson, named the NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year, will be a focal point for the Celtics’ defense. Brunson led the Knicks in scoring during their first-round series against the Detroit Pistons, averaging 31.5 points per game.

<p“Limiting Jalen Brunson could be one of the greatest challenges,” Mazzulla noted, emphasizing that successful defense will require a team effort.

The Celtics are also dealing with injury concerns, as guard Jrue Holiday is listed as day-to-day due to a hamstring strain. Mazzulla expressed hope for Holiday’s return by Monday, stating, “He’s getting better every day, doing whatever he can to make sure he puts himself in position to come back.”

As the team prepares for this next playoff stage, Mazzulla emphasized the importance of focusing on fundamentals. “You have to rebound, take care of the basketball, and defend without fouling,” he said. “All those details are super important.”