Boston Celtics showcased a dominant performance in Game 1 of their second-round playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, securing a convincing 120-95 victory. Jaylen Brown led the charge with 32 points, complemented by Derrick White's impressive 25 points, including seven 3-pointers. Jayson Tatum contributed 18 points and 11 rebounds, helping the Celtics pull away in the second half.
The Celtics' sharpshooting from beyond the arc was a key factor in their success, connecting on 18 of 46 3-point attempts compared to the Cavaliers' 11 of 42. This efficiency allowed Boston to build a substantial 15-point lead heading into the fourth quarter, where they further extended their advantage with a 10-2 run.
White's stellar performance has been a significant asset for the Celtics, benefiting from the attention drawn by Brown and Tatum. His 28 3-pointers over a six-game span set a new playoff record for the team, highlighting his impact on the court. Boston has also maintained an impressive winning streak whenever White attempts at least 12 3-pointers.
On the Cavaliers' side, Donovan Mitchell stood out with 33 points and six assists, becoming only the fourth player in NBA history to score 30 or more points in six consecutive playoff series openers. Despite Mitchell's efforts, Cleveland struggled to contain the Celtics' offensive firepower.
Both teams were missing their starting centers, with Jarrett Allen sidelined for the Cavaliers due to a rib injury and Kristaps Porzingis out for the Celtics with a calf strain. The Celtics capitalized on their top seed status, displaying a well-rested and energetic performance from the start.
The high-scoring first period, with a combined 74 points, set the tone for an intense matchup. Boston managed to maintain a lead throughout the game, showcasing their depth and versatility on both ends of the court.
Game 2 is set to take place in Boston, where the Celtics will look to continue their strong form and take a commanding lead in the series. With key players like Brown, Tatum, and White firing on all cylinders, Boston appears poised to make a deep playoff run and solidify their status as the team to beat in the Eastern Conference.
