The Boston Celtics secured a spot in the Eastern Conference finals for the third consecutive season with a decisive 113-98 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers at TD Garden. Jayson Tatum led the charge with 25 points and 10 rebounds, while Al Horford contributed 22 points, 15 rebounds, and five assists, showcasing a stellar performance that included six 3-pointers.
Horford's standout display also etched his name in NBA history alongside LeBron James and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as one of the few players aged 37 or older to achieve a 20-point, 15-rebound, five-assist playoff game. The Celtics' win marked their third straight victory in the series, closing it out in five games.
The Celtics now await the winner of the New York Knicks vs. Indiana Pacers matchup, with New York currently leading the series 3-2. Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum's extensive conference finals experience underscores the team's strong culture and consistent success.
Despite a valiant effort, the Cavaliers played shorthanded without key players like Donovan Mitchell, Jarrett Allen, and Caris LeVert. Evan Mobley led Cleveland with a playoff career-high 33 points, supported by Marcus Morris Sr.'s 25 points and five 3-pointers.
Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff commended his team's resilience throughout a challenging season, emphasizing their competitive spirit despite the obstacles they faced. The future of Mitchell and Bickerstaff with the Cavaliers remains uncertain as they head into the offseason.
Bickerstaff, reflecting on his tenure with the team, expressed readiness to continue coaching until informed otherwise. The game saw both teams utilizing the 3-point line effectively, with Cleveland staying competitive through the first three quarters before Boston's decisive run in the fourth quarter sealed the victory.
Horford highlighted the growth of Tatum and Brown following last season's conference finals loss, praising their dedication and improvement despite facing criticism. The Celtics' collective effort and commitment to progress have propelled them to another significant milestone in their postseason journey.
