NBA legend Magic Johnson praised the Knicks for their Game 1 win against the Celtics, giving credit to two players in particular.
The New York Knicks managed to mount a huge 2nd half comeback against the Boston Celtics to take an early lead in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
NBA fans loved the 20-point comeback led primarily by Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby, both of whom scored 29 points on the night.
The Celtics set a horrible NBA playoff record by missing 45 three-pointers, which certainly played a part. But the Knicks deserve credit for locking in and getting the job done.
The plaudits for this win will rightly go to the aforementioned Knicks stars. But two key difference-makers have also received their flowers from an NBA legend.
As a Los Angeles Lakers legend, it is safe to assume that Magic Johnson enjoyed watching that Celtics loss. He certainly appreciates what the Knicks did.
Magic broke down the game in his customary straightforward fashion on X. He highlighted the contributions of two unsung heroes, Mikal Bridges and Miles McBride.
‘What a comeback victory in overtime for the NY Knicks led by OG Anunoby and Jalen Brunson, who both finished with 29 points,” Johnson wrote.
“Two guys that deserve a lot of credit for the victory were Mikal Bridges and Miles McBride.
“Mikal’s defense was superb, and he hit a key 3-pointer to put the Knicks up in overtime, and McBride hit three 3-pointers and finished with 11 points. The Knicks won despite missing 17 free throws!”
Despite a Game 1 road win for New York, the series has only just begun. The Celtics are NBA champions for a reason, and likely won’t shoot 25% from the three-point line again.
Both teams have elite players. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown can take over any game, and Brunson and KAT are capable of the same.
But Bridges is the man the Knicks gave up five first-round picks for. And unlocking his offense could be the key.
Mikal had only eight points on the night, although he hit a clutch three-pointer in overtime. He was also a monster defensively. Carrying forward that momentum could be huge.
The former Suns man averaged 17.6 points per game this season. If he can get those numbers in this series, it could prove to be what pushes the Knicks over the top.
