The Boston Celtics showcased an amazing performance during their Round 1 playoff series against the Orlando Magic, winning decisively with a 4-1 record. However, they currently face significant hurdles in the Round 2 playoffs. Game 1 against the New York Knicks ended unfavorably, with the Celtics falling short at 105-108.
Many fans speculated that the Celtics would bounce back in Game 2, but it did not play out that way. They struggled to gain any momentum and ultimately lost again. Amid this disappointing situation, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst raised concerns about the Celtics’ future, as questions surrounding their playoff performance continue to linger.
“Next year their payroll is $460 million when you compute the taxes. If they keep their [2025] draft pick and fill out their roster, It’s going to top $500 million. There’s a possibility this team’s not going to come back [next year]… That’s what’s on the line,“ Windhorst said in the recent episode of First Take.
"There's a possibility this team is not gonna come back… If they don't get out of this series, I don't know how you can justify spending $500 million on that roster."
Brian Windhorst on the Celtics roster going into 2026 ️
(via @FirstTake)pic.twitter.com/FUoEDe9808
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 8, 2025
Kendrick Perkins, a former NBA player, shared his insights following the Celtics’ defeat in Game 2. He suggests that the Celtics’ hopes of progressing in the series have significantly decreased.
Post-Game Analysis: Boston Celtics And New York Knicks Face Off In Game 2
The Boston Celtics recently played Game 2 of their second-round playoff series against the New York Knicks at TD Garden. The Celtics dominated in the first quarter, establishing an 11-point lead. However, the Knicks rallied in the second quarter and reduced the deficit to 9 points.
The Celtics maintained their momentum in the third quarter, extending their lead by an additional 3 points. Unfortunately, in the final quarter, the Knicks took control of the game. Star player Jayson Tatum played for 42 minutes and contributed 13 points, 5 assists, and 14 rebounds. Jaylen Brown also made a significant impact, scoring 20 points, one assist, and six rebounds.
Despite their efforts, the Celtics fell short against the Knicks, losing the game with a final score of 90-91. The Celtics will play game 3 of the round 2 playoffs series against the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
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