Boston Celtics vs New York Knicks - An insight on where the series is heading (Part 2)
Carmelo Anthony’s dominating presence in the game-2, gave the rest of the Knicks’ roster an opportunity to have an open look at the rim, making it easier for them to control
the ball and excel on the glass. As a result of that, the Knicks out-rebounded the Celtics on the offensive end by 20-9 and 53-37 in total boards.
Anthony even gave the Celtics an open challenge in the post game interview saying that the winners did not do anything special. He said that they won two games on their
home court and now it was New York’s turn to do the same thing.
Throughout the season, the Madison Square Garden has been a fortress for the Knicks and they know how to turn it on infront of their home crowd. In order to quash the Knicks
spirits, the Celtics will have to revise their defensive strategies. It’s not just about one game or a quarter but it’s a seven game series. The Celtics must find an approach to hold back the Knicks from making quick spurts. In addition to that they have to
improve their shooting as well.
The Knicks outscored the Celts both from the charity stripe and the long range putting a big question mark on their defensive strategies. In game-2, the Knicks marvelled
21-of-27 free throws whereas the Celtics sufficed with 12-of-16 only.
The Knicks also have a slightly efficient bench than the Celtics at the moment. The C’s bench seems to be lacking the energy, they displayed so frequently during the regular
season. They have been relying a lot lately on Rondo and the Big Three, namely, Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen, whereas the rest of the bench seem to be a constant disappointment.
The Celtics however have many advantages over the New York Knicks themselves. They have aggression personified in form of their classy point guard, Rajon Rondo. The player
executed some striking offence in second game and knocked down his playoff best score of 30 points.
The Knicks did not do a very good job of defending the 25-year-old point guard. As a result he took hold of every shot that came his way and his effort proved to be the
difference between the two sides on the night.
The Knicks however can stay confident at the moment; their two losses have not been as bad as they could have been. They have perked up one of most experienced and defensive
squads of the league, which is an accomplishment in itself. It was apparent when Melo said, "In a tough situation like this, coming down to the stretch, coming down to the wire, I think it gives [the New York bench players] momentum. It gives them confidence
to know that, when their number is called, they can go out there and produce. I like that. I'm excited about that."
As a conclusion it can be seen that the Celtics have a bigger advantage over the Knicks. They have the most chances to stand victorious in this series. They have a blemish
free 6-0 record against them this season and post season combined. With five more games left in the series they have plenty of time to plan up on how to tackle the Knicks.
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