Overview

• Jayson Tatum's season-ending Achilles injury in Game 4 left the Celtics without their leading scorer as they face elimination in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
• Boston secured a commanding 127-102 Game 5 victory, led by Derrick White's 34 points and Jaylen Brown's 26 points, 12 assists, and 8 rebounds.
• Luke Kornet's impactful Game 5 performance included 10 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 blocks, stepping up in the absence of ailing Kristaps Porzingis.
• The Knicks, who lead the series 3-2, aim to clinch their first Eastern Conference Finals berth since 2000, while Boston seeks to force a Game 7 at home.
• New York's defense and foul trouble, particularly for Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, will be critical factors in Game 6 at Madison Square Garden.