Celtics Face Knicks in East Semifinals Amid Dominance

Despite a dominant regular-season performance against the New York Knicks, the Boston Celtics are emphasizing caution and preparation ahead of their Eastern Conference Semifinals matchup. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla and guard Derrick White both stressed that regular season results are irrelevant in the playoffs, highlighting the need for flexibility and focus on fundamentals such as rebounding and defending without fouling. The Knicks, led by All-Star Jalen Brunson—this postseason's leading scorer and the NBA's Clutch Player of the Year—pose a unique challenge, as evidenced by their improved play in a close overtime loss to Boston in their last regular-season meeting. Boston expects a physical series and is preparing to adjust strategies as needed, with a collective defensive effort aimed at containing Brunson. The Celtics also look to benefit from the return of key players like Jrue Holiday, but remain wary of underestimating their opponents. Both teams acknowledge that playoff basketball requires adaptability and a reset from previous narratives.