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Though the circumstances are less than perfect, the Boston Celtics decisively defeated the New York Knicks, 127-102, to stave off elimination in the 2025 NBA Playoffs presented by Google.
Jayson Tatum has now joined the injury roster, while Kristaps Porzingis was restricted to just 12 minutes of play during Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals on Wednesday. Nevertheless, the reigning champions have cut the series deficit to 3-2 in this best-of-seven matchup.
“He couldn’t catch his breath, so he was available only if it was absolutely necessary,” head coach Joe Mazzulla reported regarding the condition of the 29-year-old Latvian forward/center. “That was a decision made between him and me. He was having trouble breathing. He wanted to play, and if we had really needed him, we would’ve been able to count on him.”
Struggling with an illness in recent months, Porzingis attempted three shots but converted only 1 out of 2 free throws before exiting the game at TD Garden. He also managed to record one block and one rebound. With the score margin approaching 30 points, Portuguese player Neemias Queta saw some action in the fourth quarter for two minutes, scoring four points, alongside one assist and one rebound.
British player O.G. Anunoby, a starter for Tom Thibodeau’s squad, struggled, going 1 for 12 in field goals and finishing with six points, in addition to eight rebounds, two assists, and one block over nearly 36 minutes. French player Pacome Dadiet added two points in two minutes, while German player Ariel Hukporti remained on the bench.
Looking ahead, Game 6 will take place back at Madison Square Garden on Friday, with a potential Game 7 scheduled for Monday in Boston if needed.
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