Anunoby Shines as Knicks Capitalize on Tatums Injury to Edge Celtics and Push Towards Eastern Conference Finals

The New York Knicks sit just one victory away from clinching a spot in the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, presented by Google. They triumphed over the Boston Celtics with a score of 121-113 at Madison Square Garden, taking a commanding 3-1 lead in the series following Jayson Tatum’s early departure in the fourth quarter due to a potentially serious right leg injury.

Kristaps Porzingis commented on his teammate’s situation, saying, “I’m not quite sure what to think. It seemed like he sustained an injury. He was down for some time, and it didn’t seem promising. We’re all hoping for a positive outcome.” Tatum had been performing exceptionally, racking up 42 points before being injured.

“Such incidents are part of the game. We all felt sympathy for him in that moment, but we need to move forward,” he continued. “We understand the implications of this situation. It’s a harsh reality of sports; it’s difficult to process and accept, but we must adapt to our current circumstances.”

O.G. Anunoby, who also faced an injury scare himself, mentioned, “I didn’t witness the incident. My hopes are tied to his recovery — I’m uncertain about the specifics, but I truly wish him well.” The impact of Tatum’s injury loomed large in the postgame discussions.

Anunoby, only 27, had to momentarily leave the game due to a left hamstring injury in the first quarter. After a brief stint in the locker room, he returned to make a significant contribution, scoring 20 points, including nine points on perfect shooting in the fourth quarter. Additionally, he tallied three rebounds and two assists, while Jalen Brunson led the team with 39 points.

“We fought hard, making key stops and converting in transition,” Anunoby said, reflecting on the Knicks’ comeback from a 14-point deficit to establish a double-digit lead in Game 4 of the best-of-seven series.

French player Pacome Dadiet and German Ariel Hukporti did not see action for the team led by coach Tom Thibodeau.

On the Celtics’ side, Portuguese Neemias Queta remained on the bench, while Latvian Porzingis contributed with seven points, four rebounds, and one steal.

“It’s a challenging situation for us, but we’ll look ahead to the next game and figure out our plan from there,” said the 29-year-old big man, as the Celtics face the possibility of elimination from the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

The series returns to TD Garden in Boston for Game 5 on Wednesday.

Stay tuned for the latest updates.