Knicks vs Celtics Game 6 Recap: Celtics Force Game 7 After Dramatic Win

Knicks vs Celtics Game 6 full recap delivered an electrifying NBA Playoff experience on May 16, 2025, as the Boston Celtics clawed their way back into the series to force a decisive Game 7. The TD Garden was rocking with energy as the Celtics outplayed the New York Knicks in a must-win clash filled with intensity, drama, and elite basketball.

A Showdown of Playoff Titans

The stakes could not have been higher for both franchises. The Celtics, facing elimination, had no room for error, while the Knicks were looking to close out the series and avoid returning to Madison Square Garden for a nerve-wracking Game 7.

From the opening tip-off, the atmosphere was electric. Boston’s crowd was fully behind their team, and the players responded with the aggression and energy expected from a playoff giant.

First Half: Celtics Come Out Firing

Boston jumped out to an early lead behind strong shooting from Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Their perimeter play was sharp, and the ball movement kept the Knicks’ defense scrambling.

New York, however, was not going down without a fight. Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle provided scoring punches, keeping the Knicks within reach throughout the half. Still, the Celtics ended the second quarter with a 55-48 lead thanks to their stifling defense and transition buckets.

Third Quarter: Knicks Strike Back

Coming out of halftime, the Knicks tightened their rotations. Brunson caught fire, scoring 12 points in the quarter and drawing multiple fouls. RJ Barrett also stepped up, hitting back-to-back three-pointers to momentarily give the Knicks a lead midway through the third.

But the Celtics quickly regained composure. Al Horford’s veteran presence and clutch three-point shooting helped swing momentum back to Boston by the end of the quarter. The score stood 82-79 in favor of the home team.

Fourth Quarter: Celtics Close With Authority

With their season on the line, Boston locked in. Tatum scored 11 of his 33 points in the fourth quarter, including a huge step-back three over Randle with under three minutes left.

Derrick White and Jrue Holiday contributed key defensive stops and timely buckets. Boston’s defense suffocated New York’s late efforts to mount a comeback. The Celtics closed the game on a 12-4 run to win 109-101.

Key Stats and Performances

• Jayson Tatum: 33 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists
• Jaylen Brown: 21 points, 4 rebounds
• Jalen Brunson: 28 points, 6 assists
• Julius Randle: 19 points, 9 rebounds
• Team FG %: Celtics 48.5%, Knicks 44.2%

What This Win Means for Boston

By forcing Game 7, the Celtics have breathed new life into their playoff journey. They’ve turned a potentially disappointing exit into a battle for redemption. The team’s resilience and home-court intensity were on full display, showcasing why they remain a championship contender.

What’s Next for the Knicks?

For the Knicks, the Game 6 loss is a missed opportunity. Returning to New York for Game 7 puts pressure back on their shoulders. Head coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized post-game that the team must clean up turnovers and regain composure.

New York will need Brunson and Randle at their very best to close the series out on home court. Momentum now favors Boston, and the Knicks must adjust quickly.

Fan Reactions and Atmosphere

Social media erupted after the Celtics’ victory. Fans praised Tatum’s leadership and the team’s collective grit. Analysts highlighted how Boston’s bench stepped up in key moments, and how home-court advantage can shift a series’ narrative.

Knicks fans, while disappointed, still expressed hope. Game 7 promises to be a classic—an all-or-nothing battle between two storied franchises with passionate fanbases.

Final Thoughts

Knicks vs Celtics Game 6 full recap revealed the best of playoff basketball. From strategic adjustments to clutch performances, this game had everything. With Game 7 looming, all eyes will be on Madison Square Garden for what could be a historic showdown.

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