The New York Knicks are crafting one of the most compelling narratives of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. After a solid 51–31 regular season, they’ve surged into the postseason spotlight with clutch performances, historic comebacks, and a roster firing on all cylinders. As of May 8, they lead their Eastern Conference Semifinal series 2–0 against the defending champion Boston Celtics, having pulled off back-to-back 20-point comeback wins on the road—an NBA postseason feat not seen since 1996.
First Round: Defeating the Pistons in Six
The Knicks’ playoff journey began with a gritty six-game series against the Detroit Pistons. Despite early inconsistencies, New York closed out the series with a Game 6 road win (116–113) at Little Caesars Arena. Jalen Brunson led the charge, scoring 40 points and hitting the game-winning three-pointer with 4.3 seconds remaining.
Karl-Anthony Towns provided a steady interior presence throughout the series, averaging 25.8 points and 12.7 rebounds per game. His Game 6 performance—21 points and 17 rebounds—was instrumental in keeping the Knicks competitive early.
Eastern Semifinals: Stunning the Celtics
In the second round, the Knicks shocked the basketball world by taking a 2–0 lead over the Celtics with consecutive comeback victories in Boston. In Game 1, they erased a 20-point deficit to win 108–105. Game 2 was even more dramatic: trailing by 20 again, the Knicks clawed back to win 91–90. Jalen Brunson hit the game-deciding free throws with 12.7 seconds left, and Mikal Bridges, after a scoreless first three quarters, erupted with 14 fourth-quarter points and delivered critical late-game defense.
The Knicks’ resilience and clutch performances have left the Celtics stunned and their fans uneasy as the series shifts to Madison Square Garden.
Player Spotlights
Jalen Brunson: The Engine
Brunson has been the Knicks’ offensive catalyst, averaging 25.9 points and 7.8 assists per game in the playoffs. His leadership and clutch play have been pivotal in the Knicks’ postseason success.
Karl-Anthony Towns: The Anchor
Towns has provided a steady interior presence, averaging 25.8 points and 12.7 rebounds per game. His Game 6 performance against the Pistons—21 points and 17 rebounds—was instrumental in keeping the Knicks competitive early.
Mikal Bridges: The Closer
Bridges has emerged as a reliable two-way player, delivering critical late-game defense and timely scoring. His 14-point fourth quarter in Game 2 against the Celtics exemplified his ability to perform under pressure.
Mitchell Robinson and OG Anunoby: Defensive Stalwarts
Robinson and Anunoby have been defensive anchors, consistently disrupting opponents’ offenses. Their combined efforts in the final moments of Game 2 against the Celtics were crucial in securing the victory.
The Road Ahead
The Knicks are now just two wins away from their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2000. With the next two games at Madison Square Garden, the team has a golden opportunity to close out the series. The city’s passion for the Knicks was evident during a Yankees game at Yankee Stadium, where fans erupted in celebration upon learning of the Knicks’ late lead over the Celtics.
The 2025 Knicks are redefining expectations with their resilience and team-first mentality. As they continue their playoff run, the team embodies the spirit of New York—gritty, determined, and unyielding. With the city rallying behind them, the Knicks are poised to make a deep postseason push.