Going into their semifinal clash with the Knicks, the Celtics were widely viewed as heavy favorites, while New York was largely dismissed. That perception wasn’t unexpected, given that Boston is the reigning NBA champion and had controlled the regular-season matchups. Still, the Knicks’ dramatic rally to take Game 1 shocked many who assumed Boston’s dominance would carry over.

For anyone still not concerned, Celtics radio announcer Sean Grande acted as a modern-day Paul Revere on Monday. He warned fans that the Knicks are for real — and likely tougher than any team Boston faced during last year’s title run.

In that playoff stretch, the Celtics handled Jimmy Butler’s Miami Heat, a Cleveland Cavaliers team similar to the current top-seeded squad, and an Indiana Pacers unit that knocked out Brunson and the Knicks in the semis. Finally, they beat Luka Doncic and the skilled Mavericks in the Finals.

These were solid opponents, but Boston didn’t need more than five games in any of those series. Some might argue they weren’t truly tested. To go back-to-back, the Celtics will have to elevate their play. The Knicks, despite regular-season losses to Boston, are formidable. And with Brunson — this year’s Clutch Player of the Year — they’ve proven they’re dangerous, as Game 1 showed.

Tonight’s Game 2 offers Boston the opportunity to silence critics and regain control.