08.05.2025
Boston Celtics 90 - 91 New York Knicks
In a thrilling contest, the New York Knicks once again overcame a significant deficit to defeat the Boston Celtics, securing a 91-90 victory and taking a 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Mikal Bridges was instrumental in the Knicks' comeback, scoring all 14 of his points in the fourth quarter and sealing the win with a crucial game-ending steal, his second in consecutive games. The Knicks, led by Josh Hart's 23 points and Karl-Anthony Towns' double-double, managed to outplay a Celtics team struggling with their shooting, as Jayson Tatum was limited to 13 points and Boston collectively missed 13 consecutive shots in the fourth quarter. Despite holding an 84-68 lead late in the third quarter, the Celtics faltered, allowing the Knicks to exploit their offensive woes. The Knicks now return home with a strong advantage, while the Celtics aim to respond after a regular season sweep over New York.
Oklahoma City Thunder 149 - 106 Denver Nuggets
The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a commanding 149-106 victory over the Denver Nuggets, tying the Western Conference semifinal series at 1-1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shone with 34 points in three quarters, hitting 11 of 13 field goals and all 11 free throws, while also dishing out eight assists. Setting a new NBA playoff record, the Thunder scored 87 points in the first half, breaking the previous record set by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2017. Chet Holmgren's timely free throws at the end of the second quarter secured this feat and powered the Thunder to a 31-point halftime lead. Oklahoma City also set a team record for first-quarter points in a playoff game with 45, maintaining dominance throughout and extending their lead to 49 points at its peak. Nikola Jokic, who impressed with 42 points in Game 1, was limited to 17 points before fouling out late in the third quarter. Meanwhile, the crowd's reaction to ex-Thunder star Russell Westbrook shifted from cheers to boos as the game progressed. The Thunder's relentless performance, highlighted by a spectacular alley-oop from Gilgeous-Alexander to Jalen Williams, sends the series to Game 3 in Denver.