The Celtics entered their collection in opposition to the Knicks with all of the momentum, thanks largely to their all-in method to three-point taking pictures.
However that technique backfired massive time in Recreation 1. Boston missed 45 threes in a 108-105 time beyond regulation loss, setting a playoff file with 60 makes an attempt from deep.
Up by 20 within the second half, the Celtics appeared poised for an additional win over the Knicks. Then the pictures stopped falling. Boston missed its subsequent 10 makes an attempt—each one a three-pointer.
“A few of them felt good, some felt like we have been form of forcing it,” mentioned Jaylen Brown, who went 1-for-10 from three. “Our rhythm and timing have been positively off. We bought quite a lot of nice seems, however possibly there’s some reality to [overdoing it] at present.”
In accordance with ESPN Analysis, the Celtics had 45 uncontested threes however missed 32. Even with open seems, the quantity raised questions.
“Clearly in hindsight, if we may return, we’d in all probability drive the ball somewhat bit extra,” mentioned Jayson Tatum, who went 4-for-15 from deep. “You possibly can at all times look again and see what you must have achieved in another way.”
Late within the sport, the Celtics created favorable matchups for Tatum, however he settled for lengthy jumpers as an alternative of attacking the rim—giving the Knicks a break.
After halftime, Boston went simply 9-for-34 from past the arc. The Knicks, who had beforehand allowed 84 threes in 4 regular-season losses to the Celtics, really hit two extra threes (17) on 23 fewer makes an attempt.
“I have a look at the method and the shot high quality—our shot high quality was excessive,” mentioned head coach Joe Mazzulla, who often encouarges his crew to shoot as many threes as attainable. “There have been in all probability eight to 10 pictures that may very well be higher for certain.”
READ MORE: JJ Redick Declares Lakers Should Get in ‘Championship Form’