The Knicks vs Boston Celtics Match Player Stats have one of the most storied rivalries in the NBA, and their 2025 playoff series was no exception. Fans from both sides packed arenas and glued themselves to screens, eager to see how this Eastern Conference Semifinals matchup would unfold. With the Knicks advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years, the series was a thrilling rollercoaster of high-energy plays, standout performances, and jaw-dropping stats. In this article, we’ll break down the player stats from this electrifying series, focusing on key games and individual contributions that shaped the outcome. Whether you’re a die-hard Knicks fan, a Celtics supporter, or just love basketball, this easy-to-read guide will give you the full scoop in a way anyone can understand.
The Context: A Rivalry Rekindled Knicks vs Boston Celtics Match Player Stats
The Knicks vs Boston Celtics Match Player Stats have been battling it out for decades, with their rivalry rooted in geographic proximity and contrasting team identities. The Knicks, representing the grit and hustle of New York City, faced off against the Celtics, the defending champions with a legacy of 17 NBA titles. The 2025 Eastern Conference Semifinals series was particularly intense, as the Knicks looked to dethrone Boston and make a statement. Despite losing star Jayson Tatum to a season-ending Achilles injury in Game 4, the Celtics fought hard, but the Knicks ultimately clinched the series in Game 6 with a commanding 119-81 victory. Let’s dive into the player stats that defined this series, game by game, and highlight the stars who lit up the court.
Game-by-Game Knicks vs Boston Celtics Match Player Stats Breakdown
Game 1: Knicks 108, Celtics 105 (May 5, 2025)
The series kicked off with a nail-biter at Madison Square Garden, where the Knicks edged out the Celtics 108-105. This game set the tone for a tightly contested series.
-
Jalen Brunson (Knicks): The Knicks’ point guard was a force, dropping 29 points on 10-of-18 shooting, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc. He also dished out 7 assists and grabbed 5 rebounds, showing his all-around game. Brunson’s clutch scoring in the fourth quarter was pivotal in securing the win.
-
Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks): Towns contributed 22 points and 10 rebounds, shooting 9-of-16 from the field. His presence in the paint was crucial, especially against Boston’s depleted frontcourt.
-
Jayson Tatum (Celtics): Before his injury later in the series, Tatum led Boston with 30 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists. His 6-of-12 three-point shooting kept the Celtics in the game.
-
Jaylen Brown (Celtics): Brown added 25 points and 6 rebounds, but his 2-of-7 performance from three-point range showed Boston’s reliance on Tatum’s hot hand.
The Knicks’ balanced attack and strong defense in the clutch gave them the edge, setting the stage for a competitive series.
Game 2: Knicks 91, Celtics 90 (May 7, 2025)
Game 2 was another close one, with the Knicks squeaking out a 91-90 victory. Defense dominated this low-scoring affair, and individual performances stood out.
-
Josh Hart (Knicks): Hart was a hustle machine, recording 15 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 assists. His defensive intensity, including a key steal late in the game, helped seal the win.
-
OG Anunoby (Knicks): Anunoby chipped in 18 points and 6 rebounds, shooting efficiently at 7-of-13. His lockdown defense on Jaylen Brown limited Boston’s scoring options.
-
Derrick White (Celtics): White stepped up with 22 points, including 4-of-8 from three, and 5 assists. His playmaking kept Boston alive despite a cold shooting night from the team.
-
Kristaps Porzingis (Celtics): Porzingis struggled, scoring 14 points on 5-of-12 shooting but grabbing 8 rebounds. His impact was limited by foul trouble.
The Knicks’ ability to grind out a win in a defensive slugfest showed their resilience, giving them a 2-0 series lead.
Game 3: Celtics 115, Knicks 93 (May 10, 2025)
The Celtics bounced back in Game 3 at TD Garden, cruising to a 115-93 victory. Boston’s three-point shooting and fast-paced offense overwhelmed the Knicks.
-
Jayson Tatum (Celtics): Tatum was electric, scoring 32 points, grabbing 9 rebounds, and dishing out 7 assists. His 5-of-9 three-point shooting was a game-changer.
-
Payton Pritchard (Celtics): Pritchard came off the bench with 23 points, including 4-of-7 from three, providing a spark that the Knicks couldn’t match.
-
Jalen Brunson (Knicks): Brunson managed 20 points but struggled with efficiency, shooting 7-of-17. He added 5 assists but couldn’t find his rhythm.
-
Mikal Bridges (Knicks): Bridges scored 15 points but was quiet defensively, allowing Boston’s guards to exploit mismatches.
Boston’s hot shooting (15-of-30 from three) exposed the Knicks’ defensive lapses, making this a must-win game for the Celtics.
Game 4: Knicks 121, Celtics 113 (May 12, 2025)
The Knicks regained control in Game 4, winning 121-113 in New York. This game saw Jayson Tatum suffer his season-ending Achilles injury, shifting the series’ momentum.
-
Jalen Brunson (Knicks): Brunson erupted for 39 points on 14-of-22 shooting, including 4-of-7 from three. His 6 assists and 6 rebounds showed his leadership in a crucial game.
-
Mikal Bridges (Knicks): Bridges bounced back with 20 points and 5 rebounds, shooting 8-of-15. His defense on Jaylen Brown was stellar.
-
Jaylen Brown (Celtics): Brown fought valiantly, scoring 28 points and grabbing 7 rebounds, but the loss of Tatum was a massive blow.
-
Derrick White (Celtics): White added 20 points and 4 assists, but Boston’s offense struggled without Tatum’s playmaking.
The Knicks capitalized on Boston’s injury woes, taking a commanding 3-1 series lead.
Game 5: Celtics 127, Knicks 102 (May 14, 2025)
Without Tatum, the Celtics showed their championship mettle in Game 5, dominating the Knicks 127-102 at TD Garden. Their three-point barrage was unstoppable.
-
Derrick White (Celtics): White led the way with 34 points, including 7-of-12 from three, plus 3 rebounds and 2 assists. His hot shooting set the tone early.
-
Jaylen Brown (Celtics): Brown delivered 26 points, 12 assists, and 8 rebounds, showing his ability to step up as the primary option. His 12 assists were a playoff career-high.
-
Luke Kornet (Celtics): Kornet was a surprise star, contributing 10 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 blocks. His defensive presence disrupted the Knicks’ interior game.
-
Josh Hart (Knicks): Hart led New York with 24 points and 12 rebounds but couldn’t stop Boston’s onslaught.
-
Jalen Brunson (Knicks): Brunson struggled, scoring 22 points on 7-of-17 shooting before fouling out early in the fourth quarter.
Boston’s 22-of-49 three-point shooting overwhelmed the Knicks, forcing a Game 6 back in New York.
Game 6: Knicks 119, Celtics 81 (May 16, 2025)
The Knicks saved their best for last, obliterating the Celtics 119-81 in Game 6 to clinch the series and advance to the Eastern Conference Finals. This was a historic beatdown, with New York leading by 45 points after three quarters.
-
Jalen Brunson (Knicks): Brunson was efficient, scoring 23 points on 8-of-14 shooting, with 6 assists and 6 rebounds. His playmaking set the tone for a balanced attack.
-
OG Anunoby (Knicks): Anunoby matched Brunson with 23 points, shooting 9-of-15. His defensive versatility shut down Boston’s wings.
-
Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks): Towns dominated with 21 points and 12 rebounds, shooting 8-of-20. His aggression in the paint was unstoppable.
-
Josh Hart (Knicks): Hart made history with the Knicks’ first playoff triple-double since 1972, recording 10 points, 11 assists, and 11 rebounds. His all-around game sent Madison Square Garden into a frenzy.
-
Derrick White (Celtics): White led Boston with 18 points, but the Celtics’ offense collapsed, shooting just 35.8% from the field.
-
Jaylen Brown (Celtics): Brown struggled, scoring 15 points on 5-of-14 shooting. Without Tatum, Boston lacked the firepower to keep up.
The Knicks’ balanced offense (every starter scored in double digits) and suffocating defense (holding Boston to 37 points in the first half) sealed their trip to the Eastern Conference Finals.
Key Players and Their Series Impact
New York Knicks Standouts
-
Jalen Brunson: The Knicks’ heart and soul, Brunson averaged 26.8 points, 6.0 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game. His ability to take over games, especially in Game 4, was crucial. Brunson’s efficiency (48% FG, 38% 3P) made him a matchup nightmare.
-
Josh Hart: Hart’s hustle was infectious, averaging 15.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 5.7 assists. His Game 6 triple-double was a defining moment, showcasing his versatility and heart.
-
Karl-Anthony Towns: Towns provided a consistent double-double threat, averaging 19.5 points and 10.8 rebounds. His presence in the paint gave the Knicks a size advantage.
-
OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges: Both wings were defensive anchors, with Anunoby averaging 18.2 points and Bridges contributing 16.7 points. Their ability to guard multiple positions limited Boston’s options.
Boston Celtics Standouts
-
Jayson Tatum (Games 1-4): Before his injury, Tatum averaged 31.0 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists. His absence was a game-changer for Boston.
-
Derrick White: White stepped up post-Tatum, averaging 22.8 points and 5.0 assists. His three-point shooting (42% 3P) kept Boston competitive.
-
Jaylen Brown: Brown carried the load without Tatum, averaging 23.7 points and 7.3 rebounds. His Game 5 performance showed his leadership, but he couldn’t sustain it in Game 6.
-
Luke Kornet: Kornet’s Game 5 heroics (10 points, 7 blocks) highlighted his value as a role player, but he couldn’t replicate that impact in Game 6.
Knicks vs Boston Celtics Match Player Stats Statistical Highlights and Trends
-
Knicks’ Defensive Dominance: In Game 6, the Knicks held the Celtics to a season-low 37 points in the first half, including just 20 points in the first quarter. This defensive intensity was a hallmark of their series-clinching performance.
-
Celtics’ Three-Point Reliance: Boston shot 36.8% from three for the series, but their 22-of-49 performance in Game 5 showed their potential when hot. However, their offense crumbled without Tatum.
-
Knicks’ Balanced Scoring: Every Knicks starter scored in double digits in Game 6, a testament to their team-oriented approach. This balance was key to overcoming Boston’s depth.
-
Rebounding Battle: The Knicks outrebounded the Celtics 48-40 per game, with Towns and Hart leading the way. This dominance on the boards gave New York second-chance points and control of the pace.
Why the Knicks Won
The Knicks’ victory wasn’t just about stats—it was about heart, hustle, and seizing opportunities. Jayson Tatum’s injury in Game 4 was a turning point, but the Knicks’ ability to exploit Boston’s weakened roster was impressive. Their balanced attack, led by Brunson’s scoring, Hart’s versatility, and Towns’ dominance, overwhelmed the Celtics. New York’s defense, particularly in Game 6, was suffocating, holding Boston to a dismal 35.8% from the field. The Knicks also thrived in the electric atmosphere of Madison Square Garden, where fans like Ben Stiller and Lenny Kravitz fueled the energy.
What’s Next for Knicks vs Boston Celtics Match Player Stats Both Teams?
For the Knicks, the Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers (starting May 21, 2025) offer a chance to reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999. With Brunson, Hart, and Towns firing on all cylinders, New York has a real shot at a deep playoff run. For the Celtics, the loss stings, especially after their 2024 championship. Tatum’s injury was a massive setback, but players like White and Brown showed Boston’s depth. The Celtics will regroup, likely targeting young talent in the 2025 NBA Draft to bolster their roster.
How to Follow Knicks vs Boston Celtics Match Player Stats
Want to dive deeper into Knicks vs Boston Celtics Match Player Stats? Check out trusted sources like:
-
NBA.com: Offers detailed box scores, shot charts, and video highlights for every game.
-
ESPN: Provides game summaries, player stats, and analysis.
-
Sofascore: Great for real-time stats, head-to-head records, and live scores.
-
Basketball-Reference: Perfect for historical data and series summaries.
These platforms make it easy to track player performances, team trends, and more, whether you’re a casual fan or a stats nerd.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Knicks vs Boston Celtics Match Player Stats playoff series was a showcase of talent, grit, and unforgettable moments. From Jalen Brunson’s scoring outbursts to Josh Hart’s historic triple-double, the Knicks proved they could hang with the best. The Celtics, despite losing Tatum, fought valiantly behind Derrick White and Jaylen Brown. The stats tell the story of a series defined by big performances, defensive battles, and a Knicks team that seized their moment. As New York moves on to face the Pacers, this series will be remembered as a turning point in their quest for NBA glory.