In a closely contested battle between two Eastern Conference rivals the Boston Celtics emerged victorious over the New York Knicks by a score of 114-108. The game was a back and forth affair with both teams exchanging leads throughout the contest. The Celtics ultimately prevailed thanks to their strong shooting performance and their ability to limit turnovers.
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Key Matchups and Factors
The matchup between Jayson Tatum of the Celtics and Julius Randle of the Knicks was one of the most anticipated of the night. Both players are among the top scorers in the NBA and they did not disappoint. Tatum led the Celtics with 32 points while Randle countered with 28 points for the Knicks.
Another key factor in the game was the Celtics ability to limit turnovers. The Knicks entered the game averaging the most turnovers per game in the NBA and the Celtics took advantage of their opponent’s carelessness. The Celtics forced 16 turnovers including eight in the fourth quarter.
Game Summary
The Boston Celtics jumped out to an early lead but the Knicks quickly responded and tied the game at halftime. The Celtics took control in the third quarter outscoring the Knicks by 10 points to take a 92-82 lead into the final period. The Knicks made a late push to get back in the game but the Celtics held on for the victory.
Homestand SWEEP ✅✅✅#DifferentHere pic.twitter.com/FyfeJDZeAA
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) November 14, 2023
Player Performances
In addition to Tatum’s 35 points the Celtics received strong contributions from Jaylen Brown (24 points), Marcus Smart (16 points, 10 assists) and Al Horford (12 points, 10 rebounds). For the Knicks, Randle’s 28 points were not enough as RJ Barrett added 21 points and Jalen Brunson had 18 points.
Jayson Tatum dropped a season-high 35 PTS in the Celtics' win over the Knicks!
— NBA (@NBA) November 14, 2023
🔥 35 PTS
🔥 7 AST
🔥 5 3PM pic.twitter.com/e6BcYZNO3H
Coaching Decisions
Both coaches made some key decisions that had a significant impact on the game. Boton Celtics coach Ime Udoka elected to start Smart who had been struggling in recent games. Smart responded with his best game of the season and his defense against Barrett was a major factor in the Celtics victory.
Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau opted to play Randle and Barrett together in the starting lineup even though the two players had not started together since the beginning of the season. The duo combined for 49 points but it was not enough to overcome the Celtics superior shooting and rebounding.
Conclusion
The Boston Celtics victory was a much-needed one, as they had lost two of their previous three games. The Celtics are now 8-5 on the season, while the Knicks fall to 5-7. The two teams will meet again on December 12th in New York City.
Prediction for Next Matchup
The Celtics have won the last three meetings between the two teams and they are the better team on paper. However, the Knicks are a young and talented team that is capable of beating anyone on any given night. It should be another close game and I predict that the Celtics will win by a score of 110-106.