In the high-stakes Game 5 matchup between the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics, Knicks guard Josh Hart sustained a critical eye injury early in the contest. The cut above his eye, caused by an elbow to the face, forced Hart to leave the game and required medical attention, including stitches. Despite the injury, Hart remained a key contributor, finishing with 24 points and leading the Knicks in scoring. The game also saw a tense exchange between Hart and Celtics guard Jaylen Brown, who got involved in a scuffle during the third quarter. The incident highlighted the intensity of the rivalry, as both players expressed their competitive drive.
Meanwhile, Boston faced the challenge of adapting to the absence of Jayson Tatum, with Derrick White stepping up to provide crucial scoring with 34 points and seven three-pointers. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla praised the team’s response to the adversity, emphasizing their determination to keep the series alive. The matchup returns to New York for Game 6, with the Celtics needing to overcome the deficit and the Knicks hoping to regain momentum.