Luke Kornet delivered a Game 5 performance that will be remembered for years. Kornet’s defense fueled Boston’s 127-102 blowout win over the New York Knicks. The Celtics faced elimination but found an unlikely hero in him. In 26 minutes, Kornet tallied 10 points, grabbed 9 rebounds, and blocked 7 shots. He shot a perfect 5-of-5 from the field. His +20 plus-minus was the best on either team. The Knicks certainly did not expect this version of Kornet. New York fans barely noticed him during his stint with the Knicks. In this series, he had been a role player at best. But with Kristaps Porzingis battling illness and struggling, Kornet stepped up when it mattered most. Kornet’s dominant showing made history. He became the first NBA player in playoff history to post at least 10 points, 9 rebounds, 7 blocks, and shoot 100% from the floor in a single game.
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Praise From Teammates and Coaches
Jaylen Brown praised his teammate after the crucial victory. “Luke was huge. Both defensively and offensively, he was stellar,” Brown said. “That’s the type of performance we need in the playoffs. Big defensive stops, crucial plays, and even finishing that backwards lob. Luke was great.”
Head coach Joe Mazzulla shared similar sentiments. “He excelled on both ends,” Mazzulla said. “He protected the rim without fouling and controlled the glass with nine rebounds, including two offensive boards. His presence was felt throughout the game. He made winning plays.”
The key factor was Luke Kornet’s defense. Mazzulla employed him strategically. Kornet guarded Josh Hart, freeing himself to float near the rim. This allowed him to challenge drives by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. The tactic resembled how Detroit used Jalen Duren against the Knicks earlier this season.
Filling the Void Left by Stars
Without Jayson Tatum in the lineup, the Celtics needed collective effort. Derrick White and Brown provided offensive firepower. However, Luke Kornet’s defense altered the game’s momentum.
In the third quarter, Kornet’s impact was most evident. Boston outscored New York 32-17. Kornet blocked six of his seven shots in that single quarter. His rim protection stifled New York’s offensive rhythm.
With Porzingis limited by a persistent illness, Kornet’s role could expand even further. Eamon Cassels of Last Word on Sports alluded to a possible starting role for Kornet in a recent article. Boston may rely heavily on Kornet’s defense to stay alive in this series.
The Celtics no longer have the luxury of a top-five superstar carrying them. Their comeback hopes hinge on defensive grit. Kornet’s ability to anchor the paint is essential.
Luke Kornet’s Defense Echoes Bill Russell’s
Kornet’s sudden emergence brought back memories of a Celtics legend. Bill Russell, the cornerstone of Boston’s dynasty, built his legacy on defense. Russell won 11 championships by controlling the glass and protecting the rim.
Russell’s leadership and shot-blocking set the foundation for Celtics basketball. He didn’t need to dominate offensively. His defense anchored title runs year after year. The Celtics now ask Kornet for a similar role. They don’t need him to be a superstar. They need his defensive presence.
Luke Kornet’s defense may not reach Russell’s historic level, but his impact is undeniable. His Game 5 performance mirrored the defensive focus that Russell made famous.
The Road Ahead for Kornet and the Celtics
Boston faces a daunting challenge, down 3-2 in the series. However, Kornet’s breakout game could breathe life into their playoff run. His rim protection, rebounding, and defensive awareness could give the Celtics hope of overcoming odds heavily stacked against them.
Luke Kornet’s defense will remain critical in the upcoming games. If Porzingis continues to struggle, Kornet will be Boston’s primary rim protector. His ability to stay disciplined and contest shots without fouling is exactly what Boston needs.
This Game 5 performance didn’t just extend the series. It showcased Kornet’s capacity to deliver in high-stakes moments. Moving forward, he has likely earned a larger role.
The Celtics may not have Russell today, but with Kornet anchoring the paint, they might be close enough.
Credit: © Darryl Norenberg-Imagn Images
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