Knicks Aim for 3-0 Series Lead Against Celtics in Game 3

NEW YORK – The New York Knicks host the Boston Celtics today for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks have a chance to sweep the series 3-0 after winning the first two games at TD Garden in Boston.

The Celtics opened Game 3 strong, establishing a 34-18 lead in the first quarter. Jaylen Brown led Boston with seven points during that stretch, aided by a strong showing from beyond the arc.

The Knicks’ Mitchell Robinson provided a spark for his team, managing to energize the fans as he stepped to the free-throw line. However, the Knicks struggled with foul trouble in the opening minutes, and they weren’t able to cut into the Celtics’ early lead.

After a series of missed opportunities by the Knicks, the Celtics increased their advantage to 16 points by the end of the quarter with a buzzer-beating shot by Payton Pritchard. Boston maintained a hot shooting touch, hitting six of their first seven three-pointers.

The dire situation for the Knicks continued as they trailed 36-20 at the beginning of the second quarter. However, they still have a chance to turn the tide, as they’ve shown resilience in the previous two games, overcoming 20-point deficits to secure wins.

As the game unfolds, both teams are monitoring key player performances. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla is banking on his star players, including Jayson Tatum and Brown, to regain their shooting rhythm after struggling in the earlier games.

The Celtics need a win desperately to avoid falling behind in the series, which is pivotal for their title defense. The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden promises to be electric, as Knicks fans are eager to witness their team push for a commanding 3-0 series lead.