The Boston Celtics continue their dominant postseason run with a convincing win over the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Led by a well-balanced attack and strong fourth-quarter execution, Boston takes a 1-0 series lead and inches closer to a return to the NBA Finals.
Despite a resilient effort from Indiana, the Celtics used their experience and late-game poise to come out on top in front of a packed TD Garden crowd.
Game / News Breakdown
In a back-and-forth battle featuring multiple lead changes, the Celtics held off the Pacers 133-128 in overtime. Indiana had its chances late, including a costly turnover in the final seconds of regulation, but Boston capitalized when it mattered most.
Boston jumped out to an early lead behind efficient offense and aggressive defense. However, the Pacers stayed within striking distance thanks to hot three-point shooting and unselfish ball movement. By the fourth quarter, it was a tightly contested game that went down to the wire.
The turning point came in the final minutes. With the score tied at 117, the Pacers had possession with under 30 seconds remaining. Tyrese Haliburton lost control of the ball near half court, allowing Boston a chance to tie it up and force OT. In the extra period, the Celtics’ defense tightened and Indiana’s offense sputtered, leading to a clutch Boston finish.
Key Players & Performances
This game showcased All-Star talent across both rosters, but the Celtics had the final say thanks to their veteran duo.
– **Jayson Tatum**: Stepped up in a big way, dropping 36 points with 12 rebounds and 4 assists. He was efficient shooting the ball and came alive in overtime to seal the win.
– **Jaylen Brown**: Added 26 points and was solid on both ends of the floor, often guarding Indiana’s top perimeter scorers.
– **Jrue Holiday**: Provided big plays down the stretch and contributed 25 points, 7 assists, and stellar defense.
For Indiana, Haliburton led the charge:
– **Tyrese Haliburton**: Scored 25 points with 10 assists, including 6 made three-pointers. He controlled the tempo until the late turnover proved costly.
– **Pascal Siakam**: Added 24 points and was active on the glass and in transition.
– **Myles Turner**: Strong interior presence with 23 points, including key baskets in the third quarter.
Despite the loss, the Pacers made it clear they won’t be easy to eliminate. They shot 53% from the field and hit 13 threes while committing just 11 turnovers—although one of them proved decisive.
Team Impact & Standings
With the win, the Celtics take a critical 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. They remain undefeated at home in the playoffs and maintain momentum heading into Game 2. As the No. 1 seed in the East, Boston has now won six straight playoff games after their first-round sweep of Miami and a gentleman’s sweep of Cleveland.
Their depth and experience are showing—they know how to close tight games.
As for Indiana, despite the loss, this young team proved they belong on this big stage. They’ve already beaten Milwaukee and New York in earlier rounds, and their fast-paced style and confidence give them a fighting chance. That said, dropping Game 1 after having a late lead is the kind of loss that stings in a long series.
Eastern Conference Finals (Series):
– Boston Celtics lead 1-0
What’s Next
Game 2 tips off on Thursday at TD Garden. All eyes will be on how Indiana responds.
Some things to watch heading into Game 2:
– Can the Pacers cut down on late-game mistakes?
– Will Boston’s bench deliver again at home?
– Can Indiana find a way to limit Jayson Tatum’s scoring outbursts?
A loss in Game 2 would put Indiana in a deep hole heading back to Gainbridge Fieldhouse. But if they’ve shown anything this postseason, it’s that they can bounce back.
Boston, meanwhile, aims to continue their focus and take full advantage of home court.
Conclusion
Game 1 lived up to the playoff hype, with stars shining and drama unfolding until the final buzzer. The Celtics came through in crunch time, showing why they’re championship favorites.
But don’t count out the Pacers. This young group has fight, and this series is far from over.
Game 2 is just around the corner, and if it’s anything like the opener, fans are in for another thriller.