The New York Knicks have a prime opportunity to eliminate the Boston Celtics in Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals. With a 3-1 series lead following a dominant 121-113 Game 4 victory, the Knicks now head to Boston with momentum—and the upper hand.

Jalen Brunson Leads the Charge for the Knicks

Jalen Brunson continues to prove he’s one of the NBA’s elite playoff performers. The All-Star guard delivered a spectacular 39-point performance in Game 4, controlling the tempo and drilling clutch shots throughout. Brunson’s shot-making off the dribble disrupted Boston’s typically stout switching defense—a strategy that had previously limited New York’s offensive rhythm.

But it wasn’t just Brunson. The Knicks’ supporting cast stepped up:

• Karl-Anthony Towns: Efficient 23 points on 11-for-15 shooting

• Mikal Bridges: 23 points, dominating the mid-range, especially late

• OG Anunoby: 20 points, including 4-of-8 from deep

• Mitchell Robinson: 5 offensive rebounds, anchoring the glass

New York’s offensive diversity was on full display and will be essential to clinch the series.

Jayson Tatum’s Injury Shifts Series Dynamics

The Celtics suffered a massive setback when Jayson Tatum ruptured his right Achilles tendon in Game 4—a season-ending injury that required immediate surgery. Tatum, who scored 42 points in the loss, had been the focal point of Boston’s offense and defense, using his size and shot creation to exploit mismatches.

With Tatum sidelined, the spotlight shifts to Jaylen Brown, who must now shoulder a greater offensive load. Brown has averaged 20.5 points in the series but is shooting just 37.7% from the field and 22.6% from beyond the arc. Without Tatum drawing defensive attention, Brown’s inefficiencies could become a bigger liability.

Key Matchups and Adjustments for Game 5

Boston head coach Joe Mazzulla faces difficult lineup decisions heading into Game 5:

• Smaller lineup: Could feature Payton Pritchard starting alongside Derrick White and Jrue Holiday

• Big lineup: Potentially adds Kristaps Porzingis or Luke Kornet next to Al Horford

The Knicks must be ready to adjust defensively depending on Boston’s approach. Limiting three-point opportunities is critical—especially against White, who hit six threes in Game 4. The Celtics currently lead the second round in three-point attempts per 100 possessions. If Boston gets hot from deep, they can still challenge New York, even without their superstar.

Knicks’ Formula to Win Game 5

To close out the series and advance to the Eastern Conference Finals, the Knicks need to:

• Continue feeding Jalen Brunson as the offensive initiator

• Maintain offensive balance with Towns, Bridges, and Anunoby contributing

• Crash the offensive boards to generate extra possessions

• Defend the perimeter and control defensive rebounds

• Contain Jaylen Brown and prevent him from finding a scoring rhythm

With Tatum out and confidence high, the Knicks have a clear path to their first Conference Finals appearance in over two decades. Game 5 is their chance to finish the job.