Playoff basketball in the Eastern Conference is often a showcase of resilience, but sometimes, it’s a gut check for everyone involved. The Celtics and Knicks series is no exception. After four games that had fans bracing for a quick New York sweep, Game 5 in Boston flipped the narrative in a big way. But it wasn’t just about the box score or the highlights. Beneath the surface, battle scars and hard truths were emerging, especially around one player who’s been both a beacon and a question mark in these playoffs. The talk of the game? Kristaps Porzingis.

The energy in TD Garden was magnetic, but it was more than just fan noise. It was the kind of collective will that seemed to breathe life back into the Celtics. Derrick White took command, Jaylen Brown attacked like it was the last game of his career, and the role players answered the call. The bench, often the unsung heroes in playoff series, provided the spark that kept Boston’s momentum blazing. Defense, which had seemed porous in earlier games, was suddenly a brick wall.

But while the Celtics’ resurgence grabbed headlines, a shadow loomed over the Knicks’ side. Kristaps Porzingis, their towering forward, fought through the kind of physical adversity that would have sidelined many. Porzingis has been battling through a tough postseason, dealing with lingering effects from an illness that sidelined him for eight games back in March. Despite those setbacks, Mazzulla made a strategic move for Game 5, inserting Porzingis into the starting lineup in place of an injured Jayson Tatum after KP had come off the bench in the previous three contests.

Though limited to just 12 minutes and scoring a single point, Porzingis’s presence on the court was significant. As Mazzulla explained, “He couldn’t breathe. He was available if absolutely necessary.” At halftime, the two agreed to shut him down to protect his health, but the expectation is that he’ll be back for Game 6. Porzingis showed up when he didn’t have to, and that kind of determination sends a strong message to everyone involved.

The Knicks struggled to keep pace throughout Game 5, managing just 102 points while the Celtics exploded for 127. Hart led New York with 24 points and 7 rebounds. But the supporting cast fell short, as the Knicks’ offense sputtered against Boston’s stifling defense.

Kristaps Porzingis is expected to play in Game 6 vs the Knicks, and what it means for the Celtics

The Celtics’ win was impressive, a 127-102 blowout that kept their season alive and sent the series back with a fresh pulse. Sure. The Knicks’ control of the series now looks shakier. Yes. But the Celtics’ fire has reignited a debate: can Boston really pull off the rare and daunting 3-1 comeback?

History says it’s tough, but the Celtics are no strangers to defying expectations. The recent game was more of a statement than a win. And it was made on the backs of players stepping up when it mattered most, even when the odds were stacked against them.

Still, the lingering question about Porzingis’s health adds a layer of uncertainty to Boston’s outlook. Boston’s offense heavily depends on Porzingis’ unique skill set and floor spacing. And they felt the impact of his limited minutes in Game 5 despite winning. If he’s not fully ready for Game 6, the Celtics will have to adjust quickly, relying more heavily on White, Brown, Holiday, and their supporting cast to fill the void.

The Celtics’ season momentum depends heavily on Porzingis returning to full health and form. If he can bounce back quickly, Boston’s chances to push deeper into this series—and beyond—look much brighter. Meanwhile, the Knicks face an uphill climb trying to slow down a Celtics squad that showed fire and depth in their dominant Game 5 win.

Looking ahead, Game 6 promises to be a… let’s just say — crucial crossroad. The Knicks will be desperate to close out the series at home. While the Celtics’ recent survival and the chance to push the series to a dramatic Game 7 will energize them. If Porzingis is back and healthy, Boston holds a clear advantage. But even if he’s still hampered, the Celtics’ belief, fueled by their recent success, could make them tough to stop.

Playoff basketball, after all, isn’t just about talent. It’s about who wants it more, who’s willing to push through pain, and who can seize the moment. For both teams, that moment is coming fast. And we’re here to witness it all, one play at a time!