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Knicks advance and face tough test against defending champion Celtics in 2nd round of NBA playoffs

ABC News's profile
ABC News
13h ago

The New York Knicks have advanced to the second round of the NBA playoffs after a narrow victory over the Detroit Pistons, thanks to a standout performance by Jalen Brunson. The Knicks, having bolstered their roster with the additions of Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges, are now set to face the defending champion Boston Celtics. The series against Detroit was closely contested, with each of the last four games decided by three points or fewer, a rarity in NBA history. As they prepare to face the Celtics, the Knicks acknowledge the increased challenge due to Boston's championship experience. Moves made to strengthen the team, including the acquisition of Towns and Bridges, demonstrate New York's commitment to reaching the Eastern Conference finals for the first time since 2000.

Knicks advance and face tough test against defending champion Celtics in 2nd round of NBA playoffs

The New York Knicks secured a place in the second round of the NBA playoffs after defeating the Detroit Pistons 116-113 in Game 6, with Jalen Brunson playing a pivotal role by scoring 40 points and hitting a crucial tiebreaking 3-pointer in the final seconds.

New York's roster was significantly enhanced by acquiring Karl-Anthony Towns from the Minnesota Timberwolves and Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets, in hopes of elevating their championship aspirations after consecutive second-round exits.

The upcoming matchup against the Boston Celtics poses a significant challenge, as the Celtics are the defending champions and possess extensive playoff experience, with the first game scheduled to take place in Boston.

The series against Detroit was highly competitive, with the last four games each being decided by three points or fewer, a rare occurrence in NBA history, matched only by Boston and Philadelphia during the 1981 Eastern Conference finals.

Jalen Brunson, recently named the NBA's clutch player of the year, was instrumental in securing the series win with his decisive play, creating space against defender Ausar Thompson to score the winning 3-pointer.

Despite a quiet scoring performance in Game 6, Karl-Anthony Towns contributed significantly with 15 rebounds, while Mikal Bridges delivered an impressive performance with 25 points, reinforcing their importance to the team.

New York's aggressive offseason moves, trading for Towns and Bridges, underline their determination to advance past the second round of the playoffs and aim for their first Eastern Conference finals appearance since 2000.

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