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Boston Celtics: 3 takeaways from thrilling season opener against Knicks

ByRyan Cinque|
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 20: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics attempts to steal the ball from Evan Fournier #13 of the New York Knicks during the second half at Madison Square Garden on October 20, 2021 in New York City. The Knicks won 138-134. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 20: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics attempts to steal the ball from Evan Fournier #13 of the New York Knicks during the second half at Madison Square Garden on October 20, 2021 in New York City. The Knicks won 138-134. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
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The Boston Celtics began their 2021-22 season with a thrilling matchup against the New York Knicks. The Cs ultimately lost in double overtime by the score of 138-134.

This game had an atmosphere that was similar to a playoff bout between two historic rivals. If this outing was any indicator on how the season will go, then fans are in for a crazy rollercoaster of emotions.

Despite the loss, the Boston Celtics showed a lot of fight and gave fans plenty of reasons to be optimistic.

Here are 3 takeaways from Wednesday night’s game.

Boston Celtics takeaway No. 1) Jaylen Brown shows no signs of rust

Jaylen Brown showed no signs of rust in his game and was firing on all cylinders. Fresh off wrist surgery and a COVID-19 related absence, Cs fans did not expect the All-Star to find his rhythm so soon.

In his first game back, Brown finished with a career-high 46 points, nine rebounds, and six assists.

The 24-year-old started the game hot, scoring 20 points in the opening period. He seemed to cool off for a bit but came alive at the end by scoring 17 points in the fourth quarter and in both overtimes.

Brown displayed a great deal of skill by scoring efficiently inside the offensive scheme and by creating his own offense off the dribble.

He finished the game shooting over 50 percent from the field and at a 57 percent clip from 3-point range.

Brown’s biggest play of the game kept the Celtics within reach in the final seconds of regulation by drilling a logo 3-pointer to cut New York’s lead down to just one.

Unfortunately for Brown, fatigue managed to play a factor in the second overtime and he was unable to cap his historic opening day performance with a win.

The C’s guard did manage to show that he is well on track to earn his second All-Star nod in as many seasons.

Brown’s mix of tight handles and tough shot-making will make him a nightmare to guard. If his stellar play rubs off on the rest of the Boston Celtics, then this team will absolutely be scary.

Jaylen Brown came back stronger than ever and will continue to star for the Celtics as the season progresses.

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