KNICKS, CELTS VICTORIOUS

The Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks advanced to the Eastern Conference finals in the NBA playoffs with victories last night.

The Celtics edged the Buffalo Braves, 106-104, on two foul shots by Jo Jo White after time had expired. The free throws nullified some last-second heroics by Buffalo's Bob McAdoo, who scored two baskets in three seconds to tie the game at 104-104 with seven seconds left to go.

John Havlicek led the winners with 30 points, followed by White with 18 and Paul Silas with 16.

The Knicks defeated the Capitol Bullets, 91-81, on the strength of a strong defense and a spectacular effort on the part of Earl Monroe, who finished with a season high 30 points, 18 in the first half.

The Knicks and Celts open their series Sunday in Boston.