Boston Celtics Complete Sweep of New York Knicks

The Boston Celtics became the first team to advance out of the first round of the NBA playoffs on Sunday night by beating the New York Knicks 101-89 and completing the sweep of the series. The series began with promise as the Knicks entered the playoffs looking for their first win in a decade and playing their natural rival in Boston. The Celtics had no intention of taking any longer than they had to and dispatched the Knicks with several heartbreaking losses.

The Knicks were hampered in the series by a variety of injuries to key players. Chauncey Billups went down with a knee injury in the first game and was unable to come back to the series. Further injuries to Amare Stoudemire's back left the Knicks with an uphill battle. The Celtics have a far more experienced team and Carmelo Anthony alone was not enough to pull the Knicks up and into contention.

Kevin Garnett scored 26 for the Celtics last night and pulled down 10 rebounds while Rajon Rondo got 21 points and 12 assists. Ray Allen and Glen Davis both helped with 14 points as the Celtics swept a series for the first time since 1992. The Knicks pulled to within four points in the fourth quarter but were unable to keep it close as the Celtics pulled away again. The quick victory gives Boston a week to rest before they take on their next opponent, likely the Miami Heat.

For the Knicks Anthony put up 32 points and 9 rebounds while Stoudemire finished with 19 points and 12 boards while struggling with his shooting. The Knicks finished the second quarter having only made three field goals.

The Knicks were able to put up a good fight against the Celtics in the series but were unable to put it all together and take a victory. Coach Mike D'Antoni said after the game, "WIth [Stoudemire] and Carmelo going forward, the Knicks are in good shape." He failed to include himself in his projection sparking rumors that he may not return to the team for the next season.