The Boston Celtics seek to level their Eastern Conference semifinals series against the New York Knicks after a heartbreaking overtime loss in Game 1. Despite leading by 20 points, the Knicks rallied to claim a 108-105 victory, complicating Boston's path to victory. The Celtics, with a stellar season record of 61-21, will look to superstars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to lead the charge at TD Garden.

Tatum notched a double-double in Game 1, showcasing his scoring and rebounding prowess. Meanwhile, Brown continues to contribute significantly, averaging 23 points and seven rebounds in the playoffs. The Celtics enter Game 2 as 10.5-point favorites, eyeing a critical win to avoid falling into a 2-0 series deficit. On the other hand, Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby shone for the Knicks, adding to the anticipation of a competitive matchup.

The New York Knicks showcased their resilience once again, overcoming a staggering 20-point deficit to defeat the Boston Celtics 108-105 in Game 1 of their playoff series. This marked the Knicks' fourth comeback victory in the postseason, and they executed a remarkable 31-11 run in the second half. The Celtics struggled with their shooting, failing to capitalize on numerous opportunities, particularly from beyond the arc, where they shot a mere 25%.

Despite a strong first half, the Celtics fell apart in the final moments, with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown combining for a dismal 20% from the three-point line. Meanwhile, Knicks stars Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby heated up, effectively leading their team to victory. The Celtics' inability to close out the game, particularly in the fourth quarter, raises concerns heading into Game 2.

The Oklahoma City Thunder face the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the NBA playoffs, with Game 1 set to tip-off at Paycom Center. The Thunder, the No. 1 seed, possess championship aspirations this year. They will challenge the Nuggets, who are still riding high from their recent championship two seasons ago. Ahead of the game, Shaquille O'Neal predicted a Nuggets victory, citing the team's momentum from their recent Game 7 win against the Los Angeles Clippers. Kenny Smith supported O'Neal's prediction, while Charles Barkley expressed confidence in the Thunder's ability to take Game 1.

One of the critical dynamics at play is the Thunder's long week of rest following their sweep of the Memphis Grizzlies, which could impact their performance, as the Nuggets come in with fresh momentum. As the game approaches, the question remains whether the Thunder's rest or the Nuggets' energy will prevail.

In a surprising twist, Kenny Atkinson has been awarded the 2024-25 NBA Coach of the Year, despite the backlash from fans who believed J.B. Bickerstaff of the Detroit Pistons deserved the honor. Atkinson led the Cleveland Cavaliers to a top record in the Eastern Conference, yet many argue that Bickerstaff's turnaround of the Pistons—from a 14-win team last season to a playoff contender—was even more impressive.

Fans on social media expressed their outrage, labeling the decision a "robbery." Bickerstaff's success in boosting a team that had struggled for years has made his contributions invaluable, and while he may not have secured the award, his coaching prowess is now firmly established. This debate shines a light on how coaching impacts team performance, especially in a league that is growing increasingly competitive.

James Borrego and Dave Joerger have emerged as potential candidates for the Phoenix Suns' head coaching position, according to a report. The list of candidates is extensive and includes playoff coaches like Johnnie Bryant and Royal Ivey, alongside assistants like Chris Quinn and Sean Sweeney.

Borrego's four-year stint with the Charlotte Hornets saw the team improve significantly, though they missed the playoffs in his final year. Joerger, known for his tactical acumen but sometimes contentious relationships with front offices, is currently an assistant in Milwaukee. The Suns are expected to make major roster changes, particularly involving Kevin Durant, and prioritize building around Devin Booker, who appears committed to the team.

Ultimately, the Suns' next coach will be selected based on the vision for the team's future, as they aim to recover from a disappointing season.