On an emotional night at Madison Square Garden, the New York Knicks took a 3-1 lead over the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals. After the final buzzer of Monday’s game, Knicks captain Jalen Brunson made sure to calm the euphoria of his teammates, emphasizing that the ultimate goal had not yet been achieved.
The Knicks’ victory, with a score of 121-113 in Game 4, puts them one step away from their first conference finals appearance in 25 years. Brunson, who led the team with 39 points and 12 assists, highlighted the importance of staying focused for Game 5 in Boston.
I was telling everyone to get off the court. I felt like there was nothing to celebrate.
Jalen Brunson
Brunson acknowledged the significance of the victory, especially after the Game 3 loss, where he perceived a “subconscious satisfaction” from the initial 2-0 lead. In Game 4, the Knicks showed greater determination, overcoming a 14-point deficit in the third quarter. Brunson scored 18 points in that period, propelling his team to take an 88-85 lead.
The way we responded is what I am most proud of. Staying together. Above all, not giving up.
Jalen Brunson
In addition to Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges contributed 23 points each, while OG Anunoby added 20. Despite a complicated start, where they allowed open shots to Derrick White and Jayson Tatum, the Knicks adjusted their defense and limited Tatum in the final quarter.
A crucial moment occurred when Jaylen Brown, after a missed pass from Tatum, lost the ball. Tatum injured his leg, which allowed Anunoby to recover the ball and score, increasing the Knicks’ lead to nine points with just over three minutes left to play.
With Brunson and Bridges leading the attack in the final quarter, the Knicks seemed to have the game under control before Tatum’s injury, who was taken off the court unable to support his leg. Brunson, who expressed his wishes for Tatum’s speedy recovery, emphasized that the victory is just a step towards the final goal.
I think [tonight] there was a sense of urgency, of desperation. Knowing that we had a great opportunity against a very good team.
Jalen Brunson
Brunson added that the team has not yet reached its best level and that there is always room to improve and learn, maintaining a mindset of never being satisfied.
