NBA veteran Paul Pierce has downplayed the New York Knicks’ recent series win, pointing out that injuries plagued the Boston Celtics. His criticisms have stirred discussions about the true merit of the Knicks’ victory.
“Y’all beat an injured Celtics team” – Paul Pierce diminishes the New York Knicks series win over the Boston Celtics

Key Takeaways:
- Paul Pierce criticizes the Knicks for celebrating their win over an injured team.
- The Celtics were not at full strength due to injuries during the series.
- The longstanding rivalry between the Knicks and Celtics adds context to Pierce’s remarks.
- Pierce’s comments may ignite further debate among fans and analysts.
- The legitimacy of the Knicks’ victory is being questioned by a former NBA star.
Pierce Dismisses Knicks’ Victory
Paul Pierce has openly criticized the New York Knicks for hyping up their recent series win over the Boston Celtics. The former NBA star believes that the Knicks’ celebration is unwarranted given the circumstances surrounding the Celtics during the series.
Injuries Plague the Celtics
“The Celtics weren’t at full strength,” Pierce pointed out, emphasizing that injuries significantly impacted the team’s performance. Key players were absent or playing hurt, which, according to Pierce, diminishes the weight of the Knicks’ achievement.
Rivalry Reignited
The comments from Pierce, a longtime Celtic himself, have reignited the historical rivalry between the two franchises. His remarks tap into the deep-seated competitive spirit that has defined Knicks-Celtics matchups for decades.
Reactions Stir Debate
Fans and analysts are divided over Pierce’s statements. Some agree that the Knicks faced a weakened opponent, while others argue that a win is a win, regardless of the opponent’s condition. The debate highlights differing perspectives on sportsmanship and competition.
The Question of Legitimacy
Pierce’s critique brings forth a crucial question: Does the condition of an opponent lessen the value of a victory? As discussions continue, the Knicks stand by their accomplishment, while Pierce’s comments add a layer of controversy to their playoff run.
Looking Ahead
The discourse sparked by Pierce’s statements may set the tone for future encounters between the Knicks and the Celtics. Both teams will undoubtedly be eager to prove themselves in the next season, potentially with healthier rosters and renewed determination.