Knicks busted by Boston in landmark rivalry showdown

Revenge was a dish best served green for the Boston Celtics against the New York Knicks on Tuesday night.

Boston took a landmark meeting in the lasting rivalry, earning a 123-117 decision over the Knicks at TD Garden. It was the 500th meeting between the eternal adversaries, who became the first couple to reach that landmark in NBA history.

The Celtics earned a quantum of revenge for their defeat in the conference semifinal round of last year’s playoffs thanks to 40 points from Jaylen Brown and 20 from Derrick White. Brown’s output was the best any individual player has earned against the Knicks this season.

Boston’s win also ended a four-game winning streak for the Knicks despite the valiant efforts of Mikal Bridges (35 points, 12-of-17 from the field) and Karl-Anthony Towns (29 points, 12-of-19), who delayed their doom with dominant second half showings that made up for a tepid performance from Jalen Brunson (6-of-21, 11 assists).

The Knicks immediately return to action on Wednesday night as they’ll open a three-game homestand against the Charlotte Hornets (7:30 p.m. ET, MSG).