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Celtics didn’t win the series but still broke the Knicks

The Celtics quest to repeat came up short, but they may have already removed one of their biggest obstacles for next season.
May 31, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) reacts after game six of the eastern conference finals against the Indiana Pacers for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
May 31, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) reacts after game six of the eastern conference finals against the Indiana Pacers for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images | Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The Celtics fell short of their goal of winning back-to-back championships. They were eliminated in the NBA Playoffs by the New York Knicks, who celebrated the series win. Despite being eliminated by their East Coast rivals, Celtic fans can find solace in the fact that the New York Knicks are unraveling.

The Knicks were outmatched in the Eastern Conference Finals by the Indiana Pacers, losing the series in six games to their longtime rival. The loss was followed by a major shakeup — Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau was relieved of duty yesterday, mere days after their loss.

The Knicks may be in a tailspin

The Knicks may have eliminated the Boston Celtics from the postseason, but as things seem, they have gotten the last laugh. Knick fans have celebrated the Celtics' elimination, but their joy was short-lived, thanks to Tyrese Haliburton and the Pacers.

Thibodeau led the Knicks to a 50-win season for the second year in a row and led them to the conference finals for the first time since 2000. However, his questionable decision-making throughout the Pacers (and some of the Celtics) ultimately cost him his and the Knicks a chance at a trip to the NBA Finals.

The Celtics can bask in the Knicks disappointment, at least for the moment. They have their internal issues they must attend to this offseason. Reports have suggested that the Celtics may face significant offseason changes, potentially parting ways with several stars, notably Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis.

To make matters worse, the Celtics are expected to be without Jayson Tatum for most of the 2025-26 season, after he suffered an Achilles' injury. Considering the trajectory of both the Knicks and Celtics, they both have significant decisions to make in the offseason.