Refocused Celtics lean on D, Kornet to stay alive
Briefly

The Boston Celtics faced an unexpected challenge when star Jayson Tatum tore his Achilles tendon. Despite the blow, the team rallied together, led by players such as Jaylen Brown and Al Horford, focusing on defense to compensate for Tatum's absence. Coach Joe Mazzulla made tactical adjustments, notably starting Kristaps Porzingis, resulting in the Celtics' best defensive performance of the series. Their collective effort yielded a 127-102 victory over the New York Knicks, cutting the series lead to 3-2 and setting the stage for a critical Game 6.
"The air kind of left the room after hearing the news," Celtics star Jaylen Brown said. "We didn't want to go out like that."
"Just come out, play basketball ... and guard your ass off," Brown emphasized, underscoring the team's commitment to intensity and focus.
Read at ESPN.com
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