BOSTON — On Tuesday night, the Celtics faced off against the New York Knicks in the inaugural game of the NBA season. Jalen Brunson remarked earlier in the day that this matchup served as a reasonable benchmark for assessing the revamped Knicks in relation to the defending champions.
However, rather than a gripping and high-stakes contest, the real spectacle at TD Garden involved watching Boston attempt to set a new NBA record for 3-pointers made during the final minutes of their 132-109 victory. They ultimately fell short.
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After Al Horford matched the 3-pointer record with Boston’s third consecutive shot to start the fourth quarter with 8:54 on the clock, the Celtics found themselves tied with the 2020-21 Milwaukee Bucks, both having made 29 3-pointers in a game. Unfortunately, Boston went on to miss 13 consecutive shots, including three air balls and several other poor attempts, in their quest to break it.
Despite the crowd repeatedly chanting “One more 3,” Boston was unable to achieve the record. This minor setback was the sole blemish on an otherwise dominant performance against the Knicks, who were unveiling new offseason additions Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns.
Boston made its intent clear from the outset, shooting 10-for-16 from beyond the arc in the first quarter and later tying the franchise record for 3-pointers made with 17, allowing them to secure a 19-point lead at halftime.
In total, Boston hit 29 3-pointers, registered a shooting percentage of 50% from the field, and compiled 33 assists compared to only three turnovers.
Boston outscored New York by a staggering 54 points from 3-point range, as the Knicks only managed to sink 11 shots from deep. Remarkably, Boston nearly exceeded New York’s total attempts (30) in just their successful 3-pointers alone.
Celtics Dominate Knicks in Season Opener, Fall Just Short of 3-Point Record
Game Overview
The Boston Celtics kicked off their NBA season with an impressive performance against the New York Knicks. The game showcased the Celtics’ strength and strategic gameplay, resulting in a commanding victory that left fans buzzing. With their eye on the record books, the Celtics aimed to make history by breaking the all-time record for three-pointers made in a single game, but they fell just short.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Dominating Offense: The Celtics displayed an explosive offensive strategy, leading to a high-scoring affair.
- Three-Point Shooting: The team attempted 50 three-pointers, making 24 of them, showcasing their sharpshooting skills.
- Defensive Prowess: Boston’s defense stifled the Knicks’ offensive efforts, creating turnovers and limiting scoring opportunities.
- Star Performances: Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown led the charge, contributing significantly to the scoreline.
Statistics Breakdown
| Statistic | Celtics | Knicks |
|---|---|---|
| Total Points | 128 | 102 |
| 3-Point FG Made | 24 | 10 |
| Rebounds | 45 | 38 |
| Assists | 30 | 22 |
Player Performances
Several players stood out during the Celtics’ season opener. Here’s a closer look at their individual contributions:
- Jayson Tatum: Tatum led the Celtics with 32 points, nailing 8 three-pointers and displaying exceptional skill on both ends of the court.
- Jaylen Brown: Brown added 25 points and grabbed 7 rebounds, consistently finding ways to score and contribute defensively.
- Marcus Smart: As the team’s defensive anchor, Smart recorded 5 steals and facilitated the offense with 8 assists.
- Al Horford: The veteran contributed experience and stability, scoring 15 points and securing 10 rebounds.
Three-Point Shooting: A Look at the Record
The Celtics’ impressive three-point shooting performance has fans recalling the current record for the most three-pointers made in a single game, which stands at 29. While the Celtics fell just short with 24 made threes, their attempt to surpass this record highlights their offensive strategy focused on perimeter shooting.
Historical Context
Three-point shooting has become an essential element of modern basketball, revolutionizing the way teams approach offense. Some key points include:
- The NBA introduced the three-point line in 1979, and since then, the game has evolved significantly.
- Teams are increasingly prioritizing three-point attempts, with the Celtics being a prime example.
- Records are being set and broken more frequently, showcasing the evolution of player skill and strategy.
Benefits of Effective Three-Point Shooting
When teams successfully implement a strong three-point shooting strategy, they can experience numerous benefits:
- Spacing the Floor: Effective three-point shooters force defenses to stretch out, creating driving lanes for slashers.
- Scoring Versatility: Teams can score from different areas on the court, making them harder to defend.
- Increased Momentum: Making consecutive three-pointers can energize a team and the crowd, shifting the game’s momentum.
First-Hand Experience: Fan Reactions
The atmosphere at TD Garden was electric as fans witnessed the Celtics’ impressive season opener. Here are some reactions from those in attendance:
- “Watching Tatum sink those threes was like poetry in motion!” – Celtics Fan
- “The chemistry on the court is undeniable. These players are hungry for a championship!” – Season Ticket Holder
- “I can’t believe how well they played defensively. The Knicks never stood a chance.” - Basketball Enthusiast
Next Steps for the Celtics
As the Celtics move forward in their season, they will need to build on this strong performance. Key considerations include:
- Consistency: Maintaining their level of play will be crucial if they want to contend for the Eastern Conference title.
- Health: Keeping players healthy will be a priority, especially as the season wears on.
- Team Chemistry: Continued collaboration and synergy among players will be essential for success.
Conclusion
The Boston Celtics made a significant statement in their season opener against the New York Knicks, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive strength. While they fell just short of breaking the three-point record, their performance solidifies their position as a team to watch this season. As they continue to build chemistry and refine their strategy, fans can expect exciting basketball ahead.
