Back on the big stage of Madison Square Garden in New York on Christmas Day, the Boston Celtics beat the Knicks 119-114 in the first of five NBA holiday games.

Isaiah Thomas led the way scoring 27 points but it was a three-pointer by Marcus Smart and a steal by Avery Bradley in the final minute that sealed the deal.

Carmelo Anthony had 29 and Derrick Rose scored 25 for the Knicks who made a late 11-2 surge to tie the game. But, the Celtics never gave up the lead.

The C's had six players in double-digit scoring. The Celts bench outscored the Knicks reserves 41-19. Boston also more than doubled NY in assists 25-11.

The win puts the Celtics at 18-13. The Knicks are 16-14.

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