Knicks, Nets Take Playoff Openers [VIDEO]

The New York Knicks have opened the NBA playoffs with a stifling defensive performance against the Boston Celtics while the Nets crushed Chicago

The Knicks allowed just 25 points in the second half, eight coming in the fourth quarter of an 85-78 win over the Celtics. New York trailed by three heading into the final period before limiting the Celts to three baskets the rest of the way.

Carmelo Anthony had just as many fourth-quarter points as Boston and finished with 36. J.R. Smith added 15 points for the Knicks, who turned 21 Celtics turnovers into 20 points.

Brooklyn had no trouble winning Game 1 of its playoff series, ripping the Chicago Bulls 106-89. Deron Williams delivered 22 and seven assists for the Nets, who led by 25 at halftime. Brook Lopez finished with 21 points in the first major league postseason game in Brooklyn since Game 7 of the 1956 World Series.

Andre Miller allowed Denver to take its playoff opener against visiting Golden State. Miller capped his playoff career-high 28 points by draining a layup with 1.3 seconds left to give the Nuggets a 97-95 win over the Warriors. Wilson Chandler added 11 points and 13 rebounds to the victory.

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