Knicks Make History with Defining Playoff Victory Over Celtics - (2026)

Updated: 23/02/2026

It was a historic night at Madison Square Garden as the New York Knicks secured their biggest win in 25 years by defeating the Boston Celtics in Game 6 of their second-round series. The stakes were high for the Knicks, as a victory meant advancing to the conference finals for the first time in a quarter-century. The game, which ended with a resounding 119-81 victory for the Knicks, marked a significant milestone for the franchise.

The Knicks' path to this monumental win was not without challenges. After going up 3-1 in the series and witnessing the Celtics' best player sidelined with a torn Achilles, the Knicks were determined to avoid a Game 7 at all costs. Their performance on the court reflected this urgency, with the team delivering a dominant and lopsided playoff win, the most significant in the franchise's history.

The game itself, while tight for the first eight minutes, quickly turned into an “absolute annihilation” as the Knicks built a commanding lead and sealed the series. Led by a balanced scoring attack with four starters contributing between 21 and 23 points each, the Knicks showcased disciplined defense, dominance on the glass, and elite offensive prowess.

One of the standout moments of the game came when the Knicks' reserves and bench players stepped up to make a significant impact. Josh Hart recorded a triple-double with 10 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists, while Miles McBride and Mitchell Robinson provided valuable contributions off the bench with their defensive presence and energy.

As the final buzzer sounded and the jubilant crowd at Madison Square Garden erupted in celebration, the Knicks basked in the glory of their historic win, setting the stage for a highly anticipated Eastern Conference finals matchup against the Indiana Pacers.

The Knicks' journey to the conference finals was characterized by resilience, determination, and a deep belief in their ability to compete at the highest level. The team's camaraderie, strategic adjustments, and unwavering commitment to their game plan were evident throughout the series, culminating in a comprehensive victory that showcased their potential as legitimate title contenders.

Looking ahead to the Eastern Conference finals, the Knicks must now prepare to face a formidable opponent in the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers, who ousted the Knicks from the playoffs in the second round last season, present a unique challenge with their pace, defensive prowess, and relentless style of play.

Josh Hart, reflecting on the upcoming matchup, emphasized the importance of communication, defensive awareness, and overall readiness for the intensity of the series. The Knicks are well-aware of the Pacers' strengths and will need to bring their A-game to the court to overcome a team that has shown significant improvement, particularly on the defensive end.

For the Knicks, the journey to the conference finals represents a culmination of months of hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The team's mentality of never giving up, always believing in themselves, and staying focused on their goals has been instrumental in their success thus far.

As the Knicks prepare to face the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals, the stage is set for a compelling battle between two determined teams vying for a shot at the championship title. With a historic win under their belt and a deep sense of purpose driving them forward, the Knicks are ready to embrace the challenges that lie ahead and continue their quest for glory.

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