Skip to Content Facebook Feature Image

Canada blasts Finland 8-1 to face the US in another women’s ice hockey worlds final

Sport

Canada blasts Finland 8-1 to face the US in another women’s ice hockey worlds final
Sport

Sport

Canada blasts Finland 8-1 to face the US in another women’s ice hockey worlds final

2025-04-20 05:14 Last Updated At:05:21

CESKE BUDEJOVICE, Czech Republic (AP) — Canada blasted Finland 8-1 at the women’s ice hockey world championship on Saturday and set up another final against archrival the United States.

The Canadians scored four goals in the span of 1:58. Daryl Watts scored twice, Claire Thompson had a goal and two assists, captain Marie-Philip Poulin, Sarah Nurse and Danielle Serdachny each registered a goal and an assist, and Erin Ambrose and Emily Clark also scored. Goalie Ann-Renee Desbiens stopped 19 shots.

More Images
Finland's Susanna Tapani, right, challenges Marie-Philip Poulin of Canada during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Susanna Tapani, right, challenges Marie-Philip Poulin of Canada during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Marie-Philip Poulin of Canada, right, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides second goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Marie-Philip Poulin of Canada, right, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides second goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Emilia Kyrkko fails to make a save during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Emilia Kyrkko fails to make a save during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Claire Thompson of Canada is tripped during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Claire Thompson of Canada is tripped during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Emily Clark of Canada, center, celebrates after scoring her sides fifth goal past Finland's Emilia Kyrkko during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Emily Clark of Canada, center, celebrates after scoring her sides fifth goal past Finland's Emilia Kyrkko during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Daryl Watts of Canada, down, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides fourth goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Daryl Watts of Canada, down, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides fourth goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Michelle Karvinen, right, scores her sides first goal past Ann-Renee Desbiens of Canada during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Michelle Karvinen, right, scores her sides first goal past Ann-Renee Desbiens of Canada during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Emma Maltais of Canada catches the puck during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Emma Maltais of Canada catches the puck during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Erin Ambrose of Canada, right, scores her sides first goal past Finland's Emilia Kyrkko during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Erin Ambrose of Canada, right, scores her sides first goal past Finland's Emilia Kyrkko during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Daryl Watts of Canada celebrates after scoring her sides third goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Daryl Watts of Canada celebrates after scoring her sides third goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Ronja Savolainen, left, skates past as Daryl Watts of Canada celebrates after scoring her sides third goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Ronja Savolainen, left, skates past as Daryl Watts of Canada celebrates after scoring her sides third goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Daryl Watts of Canada, down, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides fourth goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Daryl Watts of Canada, down, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides fourth goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kelly Pannek celebrates after scorinh her sides second goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kelly Pannek celebrates after scorinh her sides second goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Hilary Knight, down, takes a shot at Klara Peslarova of Czech Republic during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Hilary Knight, down, takes a shot at Klara Peslarova of Czech Republic during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Tereza Plosova of Czech Republic celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides first goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Tereza Plosova of Czech Republic celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides first goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Tereza Pistekova of Czech Republic, left, and Noemi Neubauerova of Czech Republic, right, check United States' Cayla Barnes during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Tereza Pistekova of Czech Republic, left, and Noemi Neubauerova of Czech Republic, right, check United States' Cayla Barnes during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Natalie Mlynkova of Czech Republic, left, challenges United States' Hilary Knight during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Natalie Mlynkova of Czech Republic, left, challenges United States' Hilary Knight during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Laila Edwards celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides first goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Laila Edwards celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides first goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Klara Seroiszova of Czech Republic, up, checks United States' Abbey Murphy during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Klara Seroiszova of Czech Republic, up, checks United States' Abbey Murphy during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Tereza Pistekova of Czech Republic, center, and Noemi Neubauerova of Czech Republic, right, check United States' Cayla Barnes during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Tereza Pistekova of Czech Republic, center, and Noemi Neubauerova of Czech Republic, right, check United States' Cayla Barnes during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kendall Coyne, right, fails to score past Klara Peslarova of Czech Republic during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kendall Coyne, right, fails to score past Klara Peslarova of Czech Republic during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Laila Edwards, left, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides first goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Laila Edwards, left, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides first goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kelly Pannek, right, celebrates with United States' Laila Edwards after scorinh her sides second goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kelly Pannek, right, celebrates with United States' Laila Edwards after scorinh her sides second goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kelly Pannek, right, celebrates with United States' Laila Edwards after scorinc her sides second goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kelly Pannek, right, celebrates with United States' Laila Edwards after scorinc her sides second goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

With her two points, Poulin surpassed Hayley Wickenheiser to become the most prolific Canadian with 88 points in women's worlds history.

“It hasn’t really sunk in,” the forward said.

“I would not be here without any of my teammates along the way. I was part of this team at 18 with all of my idols — Wickenheiser, Ouellette, there’s a lot of my heroes," the 34-year-old Poulin added. “That’s why I’m here, they made me love the game even more. And my teammates again today. I love the game, it’s so much fun and I feel lucky to play and wear this jersey.”

Poulin leads the scoring table at the tournament with 11 points from four goals and seven assists.

Canada and the U.S. will meet in the final for the 23rd time in 24 worlds. Canada has won 13 times and the U.S., which has never missed a final, 10 times.

The Finns actually scored first in the semifinal, capitalizing on a defensive error for a goal by Michelle Karvinen after just 46 seconds.

Canada equalizing 1:42 later through Ambrose and didn't allow any more drama.

Earlier, Kelly Pannek scored to rally the United States past the Czech Republic 2-1 in their semifinal.

With the victory, the Americans improved to 6-0 against the Czechs all-time at the worlds and 3-0 in semifinals.

Laila Edwards also scored for the U.S. and captain Hilary Knight recorded an assist to increase her record at the worlds to 52. U.S. goalie Aerin Frankel made 10 saves.

“I’m proud of how this team fought tonight,” U.S. coach John Wroblewski said. “Pucks were not bouncing our way early but we dug in and pulled it off.”

Pannek has earned at least a point in every U.S. game and leads the team with four goals.

Pannek skated around the net and her backhand shot was saved by Czech goalie Klára Peslarová, but she netted the winner on a rebound 8:26 into the final period.

In the second period where the Americans pushed hard for an equalizer, outshooting the Czechs 17-2 and 45-11 overall, Edwards got it 8:56 in, wristing a shot into the roof of the net from the left circle on a power play.

Tereze Plosová scored for the Czechs, who will play the bronze medal game against Finland for the fourth straight tournament.

The Czechs stunned the hot favorite, taking a lead with 4:32 left in the opening period to the delight of the sell-out crowd of almost 6,000. Klára Hymlárová seized the puck behind the goal and fed Plosová, who shot over the shoulder of Frankel.

AP women’s hockey: https://apnews.com/hub/womens-hockey

Finland's Susanna Tapani, right, challenges Marie-Philip Poulin of Canada during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Susanna Tapani, right, challenges Marie-Philip Poulin of Canada during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Marie-Philip Poulin of Canada, right, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides second goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Marie-Philip Poulin of Canada, right, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides second goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Emilia Kyrkko fails to make a save during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Emilia Kyrkko fails to make a save during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Claire Thompson of Canada is tripped during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Claire Thompson of Canada is tripped during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Emily Clark of Canada, center, celebrates after scoring her sides fifth goal past Finland's Emilia Kyrkko during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Emily Clark of Canada, center, celebrates after scoring her sides fifth goal past Finland's Emilia Kyrkko during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Daryl Watts of Canada, down, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides fourth goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Daryl Watts of Canada, down, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides fourth goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Michelle Karvinen, right, scores her sides first goal past Ann-Renee Desbiens of Canada during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Michelle Karvinen, right, scores her sides first goal past Ann-Renee Desbiens of Canada during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Emma Maltais of Canada catches the puck during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Emma Maltais of Canada catches the puck during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Erin Ambrose of Canada, right, scores her sides first goal past Finland's Emilia Kyrkko during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Erin Ambrose of Canada, right, scores her sides first goal past Finland's Emilia Kyrkko during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Daryl Watts of Canada celebrates after scoring her sides third goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Daryl Watts of Canada celebrates after scoring her sides third goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Ronja Savolainen, left, skates past as Daryl Watts of Canada celebrates after scoring her sides third goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Finland's Ronja Savolainen, left, skates past as Daryl Watts of Canada celebrates after scoring her sides third goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Daryl Watts of Canada, down, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides fourth goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Daryl Watts of Canada, down, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides fourth goal during the semi final match between Canada and Finland at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kelly Pannek celebrates after scorinh her sides second goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kelly Pannek celebrates after scorinh her sides second goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Hilary Knight, down, takes a shot at Klara Peslarova of Czech Republic during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Hilary Knight, down, takes a shot at Klara Peslarova of Czech Republic during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Tereza Plosova of Czech Republic celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides first goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Tereza Plosova of Czech Republic celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides first goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Tereza Pistekova of Czech Republic, left, and Noemi Neubauerova of Czech Republic, right, check United States' Cayla Barnes during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Tereza Pistekova of Czech Republic, left, and Noemi Neubauerova of Czech Republic, right, check United States' Cayla Barnes during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Natalie Mlynkova of Czech Republic, left, challenges United States' Hilary Knight during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Natalie Mlynkova of Czech Republic, left, challenges United States' Hilary Knight during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Laila Edwards celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides first goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Laila Edwards celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides first goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Klara Seroiszova of Czech Republic, up, checks United States' Abbey Murphy during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Klara Seroiszova of Czech Republic, up, checks United States' Abbey Murphy during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Tereza Pistekova of Czech Republic, center, and Noemi Neubauerova of Czech Republic, right, check United States' Cayla Barnes during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Tereza Pistekova of Czech Republic, center, and Noemi Neubauerova of Czech Republic, right, check United States' Cayla Barnes during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kendall Coyne, right, fails to score past Klara Peslarova of Czech Republic during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kendall Coyne, right, fails to score past Klara Peslarova of Czech Republic during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Laila Edwards, left, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides first goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Laila Edwards, left, celebrates with teammates after scoring her sides first goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kelly Pannek, right, celebrates with United States' Laila Edwards after scorinh her sides second goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kelly Pannek, right, celebrates with United States' Laila Edwards after scorinh her sides second goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kelly Pannek, right, celebrates with United States' Laila Edwards after scorinc her sides second goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

United States' Kelly Pannek, right, celebrates with United States' Laila Edwards after scorinc her sides second goal during the semi final match between Czech Republic and United States at the Women's Ice Hockey Championships in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

NEW YORK (AP) — A championship window seemed to be closing when the Boston Celtics left Madison Square Garden earlier this week.

Jayson Tatum had just been carried off the court with a season-ending injury minutes before the Celtics were pushed to the brink of elimination. The players were decidedly down.

The defending NBA champions are certainly not out.

They return to New York on Friday night for Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, believing they can extend the series and the Knicks' 25-year wait to get back to the conference finals.

“It’s win or go home at this moment, so none of us want to go home and so we understand it’s only going to get tougher,” Celtics guard Derrick White said. “We haven’t done anything yet. Just got to find a way to go to New York and win a game.”

Only 13 teams have overcome a 3-1 deficit to win a series. The Celtics are trying to do it without their leading scorer, who ruptured his right Achilles tendon late in the Knicks' 121-113 victory in Game 4.

“I know it’s kind of easy to write things off. Obviously unfortunate what happened to JT. But we’ve still got basketball to be played,” Celtics star Jaylen Brown said. “I believe in this group, so don’t count us out just yet.”

The Celtics rolled to a 127-102 victory on Wednesday and have led by at least 14 points in the second half of all five games. The Knicks rallied to win three of them, but the starters know they can't keep putting the team into a hole.

“We need to be better,” Knicks All-Star Jalen Brunson said. “Flat out.”

A victory would send the Knicks into the conference finals for the first time since they lost to the Indiana Pacers in 2000. The Pacers would be the opponent again, having eliminated top-seeded Cleveland, in a series that would begin Wednesday in New York.

If the Celtics win, Game 7 would be in Boston on Monday, with the winner getting just one day of rest before hosting the Pacers.

White scored 34 points in Game 5 and is 13 for 24 from 3-point range in the last two games. Brown comes off 26 points, 12 assists and eight rebounds and has scored at least 19 points in all five games, a reminder that the Celtics go far beyond Tatum.

“They’re defending champions," Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns said. "So obviously losing Tatum is a big blow for their team, but we know they’re more than capable of beating anyone on any night.”

When/where to watch: Game 6, 8 p.m. EDT (ESPN).

Series: Knicks lead 3-2.

BetMGM Sportsbook: Knicks by 2.5.

What to know: The Knicks have not won a series on their home floor since the 1999 Eastern Conference finals. They failed in their lone chance this year, when they lost to Detroit in Game 5 of their first-round series. As starting center Kristaps Porzingis struggles to stay on the floor because of lingering effects of a virus that saps his energy, the Celtics may have found another option in Game 5. Luke Kornet — like Porzingis a former Knicks big man — came off the bench and had 10 points, nine rebounds and seven blocked shots. He provided the kind of boost the Knicks need from Towns, their All-Star who battled foul trouble and has made just two 3-pointers in the series. The Celtics, who won a league-high 33 road games during the regular season, are 3-1 at Madison Square Garden this season.

This story has been corrected to show that the Knicks are favored by 2.5 points. A previous version reported incorrectly that the Celtics were favored.

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/nba

Boston Celtics guard Derrick White (9) drives to the basket against New York Knicks guard Cameron Payne (1) during the first half of Game 5 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Boston Celtics guard Derrick White (9) drives to the basket against New York Knicks guard Cameron Payne (1) during the first half of Game 5 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) drives to the basket against New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, right, during the first half of Game 5 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) drives to the basket against New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, right, during the first half of Game 5 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

during the second half of Game 5 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

during the second half of Game 5 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Boston Celtics center Luke Kornet (40) dunks against New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) during the second half of Game 5 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Boston Celtics center Luke Kornet (40) dunks against New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) during the second half of Game 5 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Recommended Articles
Hot · Posts