The key to victory in Game 3 was the return of elite perimeter shooting, and also championship defense. The Celtics held New York to 93 points on just 40.0% shooting from the field and limited the Knicks to just five three-pointers (5-25).

The Celtics found their stroke to build a big lead early, but it was playing their brand of basketball that made it possible from tip to final buzzer.

Jaylen Brown led the half with 17 points, five rebounds, and three assists, while Jayson Tatum added 14 points, three assists, and two rebounds. For the Knicks, Karl-Anthony Towns posted 13 first half points to go with six rebounds, while Jalen Brunson contributed 12 points before the break.