Celtics Edge Knicks in Thriller as Porzingis Erupts for 34 in Overtime Victory

Kristaps Porzingis put on a scoring clinic with 34 points and matched a career-high with eight three-pointers as the Boston Celtics defeated the New York Knicks 119-117 in overtime at TD Garden on Sunday afternoon. The Latvian big man's performance, including the go-ahead three-pointer in overtime, proved decisive in a tightly contested matchup between two Eastern Conference contenders.

Jayson Tatum forced overtime with a clutch game-tying three-pointer at the end of regulation and finished with 32 points for the Celtics. The game featured 11 lead changes and showcased the intensity expected when Boston (34-18, second in the Eastern Conference) and New York (33-19, third in the Eastern Conference) meet in what has become one of the league's most compelling rivalries.

Porzingis, who has battled injuries throughout his career, demonstrated his full offensive arsenal by attacking from inside and outside. His eight made threes tied a personal best and kept the Knicks defense honest throughout the contest. The former Knick relished the opportunity to deliver against his former team, particularly in the extra period when the game was on the line.

For New York, the loss stings as they competed fiercely but couldn't find answers for Porzingis in the crucial moments. The Knicks showed resilience in forcing overtime and staying competitive throughout, but ultimately came up just short in a game that could have playoff seeding implications down the stretch of the season.

The victory allows Boston to complete the season sweep of New York and strengthen their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Both teams are jockeying for favorable seeding as the postseason approaches, making every head-to-head matchup crucial. The Celtics' ability to win close games in overtime demonstrates the championship pedigree they've been building all season.

With the regular season entering its final months, this game serves as another preview of what could be a potential playoff series between these two talented rosters. The combination of Tatum and Porzingis gives Boston multiple elite scoring options, while the Knicks will look to regroup and find ways to defend elite shooting performances in future matchups.