How it Happened
An exciting, back-and-forth season series finale came down to the final possession tonight at TD Bank Garden. The Knicks had led by seven with 3:22 remaining, but Boston rallied to take a 105-104 lead on an Avery Bradley driving layup with 16 seconds remaining.
The Celtics had a foul to give, and elected to use it on Carmelo Anthony with three seconds left. After a timeout, Anthony received the inbound pass at the top of the key, but his contested 3 was off the mark as time expired.
Boston had escaped with its 13th straight home win, despite all five Knicks starters scoring in double figures. Brad Stevens’ team was able to capitalize on a few costly turnovers, marring an otherwise efficient night for New York’s offense — the Knicks dished out 22 assists and shot 39.1 percent from downtown.
Anthony led the way with 30 points, but his teammates took turns making big shots to keep the contest close. Arron Afflalo scored 17 on 7-of-11 shooting, Robin Lopez logged his 10th double-double (12 points, 12 rebounds) and Kristaps Porzingis scored 15 points in 20 minutes. Jose Calderon had 13 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists.
Knick of the Night
Anthony logged a heavy load (game-high 40 minutes), but managed to shoot a high percentage (13 for 27) against one of the NBA’s best defenses. Boston clamped down, and his two clutch jumpers were the Knicks’ only points in the final five minutes.
Numbers Game
Tonight was the sixth 30-point game of the season for Anthony.
Next Up
The Knicks fly back tonight to prepare for Saturday night’s matchup with Detroit at Madison Square Garden. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 on MSG.
