The Knicks grabbed 39.6% of their misses, once again. The Celtics knew it was coming. It was written that after a difficult Game 5, the Knicks would come as aggressive as ever on the offensive glass, and yet, the Celtics didn’t do anything about it.
The hustle and the energy were on the Knicks’ side, and the Celtics didn’t fight for their lives to protect the ball and grab those rebounds.
Because yes, a good defense means nothing without a rebound to close the possession. It’s great to contest shots, but none of it matters if you give up a second one right after.