The Boston Celtics continued their impressive run in the NBA Playoffs with a dominant performance in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Behind consistent scoring, tough defense, and smart rotations, Boston took care of business at home against the Indiana Pacers.
Let’s take a look at how the Celtics gained the early series edge and what it means moving forward.
Game / News Breakdown
Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals tipped off Tuesday night at TD Garden, with the Celtics facing off against the upstart Indiana Pacers. The final score was 133-128 in overtime, with Boston outlasting Indiana in a hard-fought, back-and-forth battle.
Boston got off to a strong start, building a double-digit lead early. However, Indiana refused to fold. The Pacers clawed their way back into the game, turning up the pace and keeping it tight down the stretch. With less than two minutes left, it looked like Indiana was on the verge of taking the opener on the road.
Then came the dagger.
Jaylen Brown buried a clutch corner three with just 5 seconds left in regulation to tie the game at 117 and force overtime. From there, the Celtics took control. Their defense tightened, while Jayson Tatum came alive offensively to help close out the win.
Despite the victory, Boston knows it has to clean things up. The Celtics turned the ball over 21 times, something head coach Joe Mazzulla will no doubt address before Game 2. Still, the resilience and execution in clutch moments were exactly what you expect from a championship contender.
Key Players & Performances
The Celtics were led by their All-Star duo, but the Pacers had plenty of standout moments themselves.
Key Celtics performances:
– **Jayson Tatum**: 36 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 assists. Tatum struggled in stretches early but delivered when it counted most—scoring 10 of Boston’s 16 points in overtime.
– **Jaylen Brown**: 26 points, including the game-tying three that capped a chaotic final sequence in regulation.
– **Jrue Holiday**: 28 points, 8 assists, and key defensive stops. The veteran point guard controlled the pace, kept Tyrese Haliburton in check, and hit several timely shots.
– **Derrick White**: 15 points and solid perimeter defense, showing why he’s been a crucial two-way asset all season.
For the Pacers, Tyrese Haliburton nearly stole the show:
– **Haliburton**: 25 points, 10 assists, and limitless range. He buried big threes to keep Boston on its heels and showcased why he’s one of the best young guards in the league.
– **Pascal Siakam** and **Myles Turner**: Provided strong inside play and rebounding, combining for 36 points and 18 boards.
Indiana’s offense put up enough points to threaten Boston, but a few late turnovers and missed free throws ultimately decided their fate.
Team Impact & Standings
Boston now leads the best-of-seven series 1-0 and protects home court to start the Eastern Conference Finals.
Here’s what it means:
– The Celtics maintain their unbeaten home record this postseason.
– Boston improves to 9-2 overall in the playoffs, continuing their strong push toward a Finals return.
– Indiana, despite the loss, showed they can compete. They may have dropped Game 1, but their play on the road against the top seed shows this series could go long.
Although they didn’t steal Game 1, the Pacers sent a clear message—they’re not just happy to be here. They’re playing with confidence, speed, and a fearless attitude that could spell trouble if Boston lets up.
What’s Next
Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals is scheduled for Thursday night at TD Garden.
What to watch moving forward:
– Can Boston take better care of the ball? Turnovers nearly cost them Game 1.
– Will Haliburton continue his hot shooting, and can Indiana get more bench scoring?
– How will coaching adjustments shape the next matchup? Both teams showed varied offensive looks and adjusted their defensive coverage late.
Boston will look to take a commanding 2-0 lead, while Indiana wants to even the series before heading home for Games 3 and 4.
With both teams playing high-paced, exciting basketball, Game 2 promises another must-watch battle.
Conclusion
The Celtics held off a furious Pacers rally to take Game 1 in thrilling overtime fashion. Behind late-game heroics and postseason poise, Boston showed why they’re a favorite in this year’s title race. But Game 1 proved Indiana is no pushover.
Expect more fireworks in Game 2 as the Eastern Conference Finals heat up.