The Celtics entered the series against the Knicks with all the momentum, thanks in large part to their full-out three-point shooting percentage.
However, this strategy backfired in Game 1. Boston missed 45 three-pointers in a 108-105 overtime loss, setting a playoff record with 60 attempts.
By the age of 20 in the second half, the Celtics seemed to have another victory over the Knicks. Then, the camera stopped. Boston missed the next 10 attempts – each three-pointer.
“Some of them feel good, some feel like we’re forcing it,” said Jaylen Brown, who scored 10-1 from three games. “Our rhythm and timing are certainly gone. We look great, but maybe something makes sense. [overdoing it] today. ”
According to ESPN’s research, the Celtics had 45 undisputed three-pointers but missed 32.
“Obviously, in hindsight, if we could go back, we might drive the ball a little more,” said Jayson Tatum, who scored 15 points from the depths. “You can always look back and see what you should do differently.”
Later in the game, the Celtics created a favorable showdown for Tatum, but he made a break for the long jump instead of attacking the rim.
After halftime, Boston made 9 of 34 shots from outside the arc. The Knicks had previously allowed 84 three-pointers in four regular season losses with the Celtics, and actually 23 fewer attempts.
Head coach Joe Mazzulla said: “I look at the process and the quality of the shots – our shooting quality is very high. “It’s definitely better if there are about eight to ten shots.” ”
Read more: JJ Redick announces Lakers must win ‘Champion Shape’
