The New York Knicks could not capitalize on their 2-0 series lead against the Boston Celtics when they returned home to Madison Square Garden for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.
The Knicks faced a 20-point deficit for the third consecutive game, but they could not overcome it this time.
Jalen Brunson delivered with a game-high 27 points, but outside of Karl-Anthony Towns, he didn't get much help from his supporting cast.
Mikal Bridges delivers honest statement
Up to Game 3, Mikal Bridges had played the hero role in New York's two wins.
While he struggled shooting the ball in Game 1, he hit one of the game's biggest shots when he drained a 3-pointer in overtime after being 2-for-12 from the field before that shot.
In Game 2, he scored all 14 points in the fourth quarter to help lift the Knicks over the Celtics in dramatic fashion once again.
Bridges was asked about the Knicks' Game 3 loss to the Celtics.
"I think they just came out with more urgency," said Bridges.
As the old saying goes, you can't fake desperation. That's exactly what the Celtics were facing the Knicks in Game 3.
Game 4 will be crucial for both sides. The Knicks hope to win to go back to Boston up 3-1 and have a chance at advancing to the Conference Finals.
As for the Celtics, having the opportunity to go back to Boston with the series tied at two after two calamitous meltdowns to start the series is a luxury the Knicks don't want to afford them.
