Extended Reactions: Celtics Collapse Again in Game 2, Knicks Seize Control

Another Collapse, Same Result

For the second straight game, the Boston Celtics watched a double-digit lead vanish into disaster. After blowing a 20-point advantage in Game 1, they followed it up with a 16-point fourth-quarter collapse in Game 2, falling 91-90 to the New York Knicks.

“Two games we’re up 20 points and somehow end up not with wins — it’s inexcusable,” said Jaylen Brown.

The Knicks didn’t lead for a second until the final four minutes. In total, they’ve led just 12 minutes in the series — yet hold a commanding 2-0 lead.

Celtics’ Clutch-Time Breakdown

Boston’s final 8:30 of Game 2:

• Outscored 23-6

• Missed 14 of their last 15 shots

• Went 0-for-6 from deep in the fourth quarter

The Celtics’ three-point shooting — typically their strength — has failed them late, going just 4-for-26 in the fourth quarters of Games 1 and 2.

Coach Joe Mazzulla emphasized poor execution and turnovers as the difference:

“We put ourselves in position and just didn’t make the plays.”

Knicks Own the Clutch

Jalen Brunson continued his reign as the NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year, scoring nine in the fourth quarter and sinking the game-winning free throws with 12.7 seconds left. The Knicks are now 5-0 on the road in this postseason — all wins by three points or fewer.

Star Duo Struggles in the Clutch

Final 5 Minutes, Score Within 5 (Games 1–2):

• Jayson Tatum & Jaylen Brown: 1-for-12

• Celtics team: 3-for-20

Both All-Stars committed costly late-game turnovers. Brown in Game 1. Tatum in Game 2. Both forced by Knicks wing Mikal Bridges.

“I don’t have the answer, honestly,” said Kristaps Porzingis.

Porzingis’ Limited Impact

Porzingis, still battling illness, played limited minutes in Game 2. He missed the second half of Game 1 entirely and admitted he’s not at full strength.

Game 2 By the Numbers

• Jaylen Brown: 20 points, 6 turnovers, 1-of-7 in second half

• Jayson Tatum: 5-of-19 FG, game-high dunk, turnover on final possession

• Celtics 3FG in 4Q (Games 1–2): 4-of-26

• Knicks’ 4Q run in Game 2: 23-6

What’s Next?

The series shifts to Madison Square Garden, and the Celtics are now battling both the scoreboard and their own psyche. Despite controlling most of the minutes, they trail 0-2.

The Knicks? They’re confident, clutch, and two wins away from knocking off the defending champs. Game 3 is Monday night — and Boston has no room left for error.