Celtics Dominate Game 5
In the 2023-24 NBA playoffs second-round Game 5, the Boston Celtics defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 113-98 at TD Garden. With this win, the Celtics advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they will face the winner of the Indiana Pacers vs. New York Knicks series.
Injury-Plagued Cavaliers
Before the game, it was confirmed that key Cavaliers players Donovan Mitchell and Caris LeVert would be unavailable. Despite this, the Cavaliers put up a strong fight in the first quarter, led by Marcus Morris Sr. off the bench. The quarter ended in a 28-28 tie, with Derrick White scoring 10 points for the Celtics.
Three-Point Battle in the Second Quarter
The second quarter saw both teams trading three-pointers. The Celtics called a timeout to adjust, but the Cavaliers continued to score through Sam Merrill, Darius Garland, and Morris Sr. However, Al Horford and Derrick White hit crucial threes, and improved defense helped the Celtics take a 58-52 lead at halftime.
Celtics Pull Ahead in the Third Quarter
Early in the third quarter, the Celtics went on an 11-0 run, with contributions from Jayson Tatum and Horford, extending their lead to double digits. The Cavaliers responded with Evan Mobley dominating the paint and Morris Sr. hitting from outside, narrowing the gap to 85-78 by the end of the third.
Celtics Seal the Victory in the Fourth Quarter
The Cavaliers kept the game close at the start of the fourth quarter, but the Celtics, led by White, Horford, and Tatum, pulled away again, extending their lead to double digits with nine minutes remaining. Despite Mobley’s continued efforts, the Cavaliers couldn’t close the gap, and the Celtics secured a 113-98 victory, winning the series 4-1.
Key Performances
Evan Mobley led all scorers with 33 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists for the Cavaliers, while Marcus Morris Sr. added 25 points. For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum nearly achieved a triple-double with 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists. Al Horford contributed 22 points and 15 rebounds, and Derrick White scored 18 points.
Looking Ahead
This victory marks the Celtics’ third consecutive trip to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they aim to continue their strong playoff run. (Lvbet)
