In a commanding performance on Wednesday night, the Boston Celtics overpowered the Cleveland Cavaliers with a 113-98 victory in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals for the third consecutive season. Leading the charge for Boston was Jayson Tatum, who recorded 25 points and 10 rebounds, solidifying his role as the team’s star player in crucial moments.
Veteran forward Al Horford also delivered a historic performance, contributing 22 points, 15 rebounds, and five assists while making six of Boston’s 19 three pointers. With this stat line, Horford joined the elite company of LeBron James and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as one of the few players aged 37 or older to record a 20-point, 15 rebound, 5 assists game in NBA playoff history.
The Celtics showcased their depth and resilience, posting their consecutive win to clinch the series in five games. Boston’s dominance was evident from the start, as they maintained a steady load throughout the game, thanks to a balanced offensive attack and tenacious defense.
In addition to Tatum and Horford, the Celtics received significant contributions from their supporting cast. Derrick White’s contributions were 18 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds and Jrue Holiday had 13 points as well. The team’s ability to spread the floor and hit three-pointers underscoring the team’s shooting prowess.
A depleted Cleveland squad, despite a valiant effort, struggled to keep pace with Boston’s well-rounded performance. The Cavaliers, led by Evan Mobley 33 points Marcus Morris 25 points, couldn’t match the Celtics intensity and execution on both ends of the floor.
With this victory, the Celtics now turn their attention to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they will face the winner of the Knicks and Pacers series. The Knicks currently lead that series 3-2, setting up a potentially thrilling conclusion to determine Boston’s next opponent
As the Celtics prepare for the next round, their blend of veteran leadership, young talent, and playoff experience positions them as formidable contenders in their quest for an NBA championship. The performance of players like Tatum and Horford will be pivotal as they continue their playoff journey, seeking to add another chapter to the storied franchise’s history.
