The boys in green played tough defense in Friday night's match vs. the surprisingly tenacious New York Knicks — but only for ~15 minutes. It was enough. Just barely.
Right from the start this game smelled like a trap, as the Cs played their usual Rope-A-Dope first half — hanging in but not exerting serious defensive pressure.
Meanwhile, NYK hit tough shot after tough shot, while the Celts missed wide-open FGAs. For a long time it looked like the Celts wouldn't be able to pull this one out.
The 3rd quarter started as it has since the defense began its recent comeback for the Green (circa February 21) — with Avery Bradley picking up the opposing point guard at the midcourt line.