The Knicks “lost” to the Celtics last night 112–102, but the game felt like a couple about to go on a critical third date that accidentally ran into each other at the grocery store a couple hours beforehand. The Celtics sat Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Rajon Rondo, and both O’Neals; and the Knicks sat Carmelo Anthony and gave 31 minutes to Roger Mason. (The only sad part was that neither Renaldo Balkman nor Andy Rautins got to play. C’mon, Coach!) Anyway, the regular season is over: The Knicks finished 42–40, their best record since 2000–01. We’re going to be covering the bejeezuses out of the playoffs over the next couple of days, but for now, let’s reflect on the most eventful Knicks season since Ewing’s prime. The playoffs — playoffs! — begin on Sunday. After the jump, the complete first-round schedule for the Knicks-Celtics series. Update your calendars accordingly.
Game 1:
Sunday, April 17: Knicks at Celtics, 7 p.m. (TNT, MSG)
Game 2
Tuesday, April 19: Knicks at Celtics, 7 p.m. (TNT, MSG)
Game 3
Friday, April 22: Celtics at Knicks, 7 p.m. (ESPN, MSG)
Game 4
Sunday, April 24: Celtics at Knicks, 3:30 p.m. (ABC)
Game 5 (if necessary)
Tuesday, April 26: Knicks at Celtics, TBA
Game 6
Friday, April 29: Celtics at Knicks, TBA
Game 7
Sunday, May 1: Knicks at Celtics, TBA
(Man, they totally drag these series out, don’t they?)