The Boston Celtics Clinch NBA Finals Berth With Dominant Win Over Pacers
The Boston Celtics punched their ticket to the 2024 NBA Finals after completing a clean sweep of the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. With a 105-102 win in Game 4 on Monday night, the Celtics now advance to their second Finals appearance in three seasons.
Despite several key moments where it looked like Indiana might force a Game 5, Boston remained composed and executed down the stretch. The Celtics become the first team to reach the NBA Finals this postseason, showing once again that their elite defense and depth are too much to handle.
Let’s take a closer look at how they got it done.
Game / News Breakdown
Game 4 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse had all the drama you’d expect from a team trying to avoid elimination. Indiana came out aggressive, pushing tempo and building a double-digit lead early thanks to solid shooting and aggressive drives to the basket.
But Boston, the top seed in the East, showed why they’ve been the most consistent team in the NBA all season. After trailing at halftime, they turned up the pressure on both ends. Their defense clamped down in the third quarter, allowing just 18 points, and they made timely shots late in the fourth to take control.
In the final minute, it was Jaylen Brown who nailed a game-tying three-pointer, followed by clutch free throws from Derrick White to give Boston the lead for good. With the Pacers unable to convert on their final possession, the Celtics walked away with a narrow win — and a ticket to the Finals.
This is Boston’s 23rd trip to the NBA Finals, the most in NBA history.
Key Players & Performances
Several Boston players stepped up when it mattered most:
– **Jaylen Brown**: He led the way with 29 points, hitting big shots in the clutch. His energy on both ends of the floor helped swing momentum in the Celtics’ favor in the second half.
– **Jayson Tatum**: He continued his strong playoff run with 26 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 assists. While his shooting was inconsistent, he made key plays throughout the game to keep Boston within striking distance.
– **Derrick White**: Often the unsung hero, White added 16 points and sank the go-ahead free throws with just over a minute left. His perimeter defense was also a difference-maker, especially late.
– **Al Horford**: The veteran big man didn’t light up the scoreboard but was a defensive anchor and brought valuable leadership during crunch time.
For Indiana, it was another strong showing from Andrew Nembhard, who scored a career-playoff-high 24 points. Without Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana leaned heavily on their depth, but couldn’t quite keep up in the clutch.
Team Impact & Standings
With this win, Boston becomes the first team to advance to the 2024 NBA Finals. They are now 12-2 in the postseason and have swept back-to-back series (vs. Cleveland and Indiana).
– **Celtics in 2024 Playoffs**:
– Round 1: Defeated Miami Heat 4-1
– Round 2: Defeated Cleveland Cavaliers 4-1
– Conference Finals: Swept Indiana Pacers 4-0
Head coach Joe Mazzulla has done a masterful job navigating injuries and keeping the team focused. The addition of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis (though the latter missed this series with injury) has given Boston even more ways to win, on both ends.
Indiana exceeded expectations this postseason, reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 10 years. But their magical run comes to an end, and the Celtics move one step closer to Banner 18.
What’s Next
Boston now awaits the winner of the Western Conference Finals between the Dallas Mavericks and the Minnesota Timberwolves. As of now, Dallas holds a 3-0 lead and could possibly finish the sweep on Tuesday.
If the Mavericks advance, it sets up an intriguing showdown between two of the league’s best duos — Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving vs. Tatum and Brown.
The NBA Finals are scheduled to begin on Thursday, June 6th.
If Porziņģis can return in time, Boston will be closer to full strength and could be seen as slight favorites no matter who comes out of the West.
For now, they’ll rest, recover, and prepare for one more final push.
Conclusion
The Celtics have looked every bit the championship contender many predicted they’d be back in October. With their blend of star talent, elite defense, and postseason experience, they’re now just four wins away from the franchise’s 18th NBA title.
After sweeping the Pacers, Boston reestablishes itself as the team to beat — and the next chapter in their storied legacy begins next week.