Madison Square Garden erupted as the final buzzer sounded, signaling more than just a win; it declared a resurgence. The New York Knicks, after a quarter-century wait, are heading to the Eastern Conference Finals. Their decisive 119-81 victory over the Boston Celtics wasn’t just a game; it was a statement. Fuelled by stellar performances, especially from Jalen Brunson, the Knicks clinched the series 4-2, setting up a clash with the Indiana Pacers that has New York buzzing.

The Knicks dominated from tip-off, showcasing a defensive intensity and offensive fluidity that the Celtics simply couldn’t match. Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby each poured in 23 points, leading the charge. Brunson, carrying on his family’s legacy with the Knicks, reflected on the significance of the moment: “This is great…the fact that we haven’t been here since my dad was on the team…it means a lot to this organization and this city.” The 38-point margin of victory underscored the Knicks’ dominance, marking the largest in their playoff history.

Josh Hart’s all-around impact was undeniable, as he posted a triple-double with 10 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. Mikal Bridges added four three-pointers for 22 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 21 points, highlighting the Knicks’ multifaceted offensive attack. This collective effort overwhelmed the Celtics, demonstrating the Knicks’ depth and resilience.

The Celtics, hampered by injuries and inconsistent play, struggled to find an answer. The news of Jayson Tatum’s Achilles tendon rupture proved devastating to the team’s morale. He is expected to be out for nine months. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 20 points, but the team’s overall performance fell short of expectations. Derrick White, who had exploded for 34 points in Game 5, was limited to just eight points in the decisive Game 6. “At the end of the day, we set a goal out and we didn’t achieve that goal,” Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla conceded, acknowledging his team’s shortcomings.

As the Knicks prepare for the Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers, the focus remains sharp. The series starts at home on Thursday at 01:00 BST. Coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized the need for continued focus. “But we can’t get carried away. Obviously, it’s a great win and we advance. But you also understand that you have to get ready for the next series.” Preparing for the Pacers’ strengths and maintaining the momentum from this series will be crucial for the Knicks’ success.

Madison Square Garden was electric, filled with celebrities like Timothée Chalamet, Lenny Kravitz, Ben Stiller, and Spike Lee, all adding to the palpable excitement. The home crowd’s unwavering energy and support served as a significant boost for the Knicks throughout the game. Social media buzzed with excitement, fans capturing the moment with celebratory posts and videos.

The New York Knicks’ journey to the Eastern Conference Finals represents a defining moment for the franchise. The team’s cohesive performance, led by Brunson, Anunoby, and Hart, showcased their resilience and determination. As they set their sights on the Indiana Pacers, the Knicks aim to build on this momentum and continue their quest for an NBA championship, reigniting the hopes of fans and ushering in a thrilling new chapter for the team.