The New York Knicks looked flat during Game 3 against the Boston Celtics. Their performance left superstar guard Jalen Brunson dissatisfied. This should mean they will be looking to play better in their second home game of the series.
After going up 2-0, the New York Knicks were high on beating the Boston Celtics in two straight games. Every team in the league would jump at the chance to defeat the defending champions twice. However, that might have gone to the Knicks’ heads, as they did not perform well in Game 3.
The Celtics pounced on the opportunity, as they had a well-deserved win. It was a strong bounce-back night for Jayson Tatum and the Celtics after their rough Game 2. The Knicks feel it was not the best result for them because of some mental obstacles they must overcome.
The Knicks’ superstar guard, Jalen Brunson, made an important point after Game 3. He felt they could have done better because they took the wrong approach to the game.
New York wanted a 3-0 lead, but they could not beat the defending champs three consecutive times. Now, they must defend home court in Game 4 because the Celtics can tie the series at two wins apiece.
“I don’t think we came with the mindset of being satisfied, but I think it was just subconsciously satisfied being up 2-0. Just not the way we need to approach the game,” Brunson said after the game.
Brunson made a good point, as the Knicks lacked energy. They wanted to win the game, but it did not look like it due to their lower energy.
While they lost Game 3, the Knicks know they must be more assertive in Game 4. It will be in Madison Square Garden again, as they will have the crowd on their side.
Knicks players do well when their fans are on their side, especially the vocal ones at MSG. Coach Tom Thibodeau and his team do not want the Celtics to get back into this series. The defending champions are a tough matchup, especially when they feel confident.
OG Anunoby has not been the best player in this series. Expectations are high for him because he often makes a significant impact. However, he has become the most disappointing Knicks player, so he is up for a redemption performance in Game 4.
Brunson and the rest of the team are motivated to win the game. However, the Celtics are similar, especially with all their doubters. This series looks to become more competitive, which bodes well for everyone watching. As Brunson said, they did not have the best mindset in Game 3. That will change in Game 4, so Joe Mazzulla and the Celtics must be ready.
