Tatum’s late scoring lifts Celtics past Knicks 107-103

The Boston Celtics held off the New York Knicks 107-103 on Friday, earning their first win of the season as Jayson Tatum’s late scoring stopped a comeback attempt and left New York 0-2. Tatum finished with 36 points, nine rebounds, seven assists and three steals. He scored 25 points in the second half, including seven of Boston’s final eight, according to the game account. His late baskets helped the Celtics preserve the lead after New York had cut a 12-point deficit to one. Boston led by one at halftime and widened the margin with a 33-24 third quarter. The lead reached 91-79 before the Knicks rallied. Karl-Anthony Towns’ putback dunk made it 94-91, and a Josh Hart three-pointer later brought New York within three. Jalen Brunson’s floater cut the gap further, but Tatum answered with a jumper to make it 101-98 with 1:11 remaining. He later hit a three-pointer after New York had moved within five. Towns led New York with 22 points. OG Anunoby had 20 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists, while Deuce McBride scored 20 off the bench. Brunson finished with 19 points. Mikal Bridges went 0-for-8 from the field; a New York-focused account reported that he was benched for the final 8½...