On behalf of the Celtics, Dave Portnoy has finally admitted defeat.
The die-hard Boston supporter, who founded Barstool Sports, was at Game 5 on Wednesday at TD Garden. He recorded a video during the third quarter, where he simply stated, “I don’t think we’ll come back,” just before the Knicks clinched a 119-81 victory.
“Raise your hand,” Portnoy said. “You beat us. The Knicks beat us. I tip my hat. Knicks fans haven’t experienced a win in ages. Honestly, Spike Lee, Chamberlain, and true fans like Ben Stiller will finally have their moment.”
There’s a *graphic language warning* here.
Portnoy insisted that despite the absence of their star player Jason Tatum and being down 3-2 in the series, the Celtics might still find a way into another Eastern Conference Finals.
Earlier, he posted on social media a photo of himself displaying seven fingers while wearing a Celtics shirt, showing solidarity ahead of Game 6. He voiced concerns about the Knicks possibly finishing the series strong.
“I’ve been on X for quite a while,” Portnoy mentioned. “I’ve never sensed such fear and anxiety from Knicks fans. It’s pure fear. They’re trying to act tough, but I can smell blood in the water.”
During the first half, Portnoy continued to share updates about Boston’s progress, noting how impressive Kristaps Porzingis looked, before his tone shifted dramatically in a video recorded late in the third quarter.
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By halftime, the Celtics’ chances were looking bleak. Portnoy remarked, “The Knicks could beat anyone.” He acknowledged that while they might not match up ideally against Tatum, the Knicks are formidable.
Four Knicks starters—Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges—all scored at least 20 points, setting a solid blueprint for the Celtics to follow. Meanwhile, Derrick White and Jaylen Brown struggled again.
The Knicks advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since the 1999-2000 season, preparing for a rematch with the Pacers, who had eliminated New York in the second round last year.
A disappointing defeat forced the Celtics and Portnoy to confront the end of the season. Looking ahead, while Tatum recovers from a torn Achilles, next year might hold promise.
