The Boston Celtics proved their dominance in a hard-fought Game 4 showdown in the NBA Eastern Conference Playoff Semifinals. NBA EASTERN CONFERENCE PLAYOFFSby securing a 109-102 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.
With the win, the Celtics advanced to a solid 3-1 series lead, putting them in a favorable position as they move closer to advancing to the next round.
The close nature of the game took everyone by surprise. It marked the Celtics' first playoff game decided by single-digit points. The Celtics' strategy mirrored Game 3, with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading the effort, backed by Jrue Holiday's contribution.
Analysis of the Approach
Before the game, the Cavaliers seemed to rely on three-pointers, relying on a hot streak. True to expectations, they made 11 three-pointers in the first half. However, their production dropped in the second half to just four, a significant factor in their eventual defeat.
Despite the absence of Donovan Mitchell, the Cavaliers showed admirable resiliency throughout the game. Mitchell, the Cavaliers' iconic leader and primary offensive catalyst, was out due to a calf injury, leaving a glaring void in the team's lineup.
Their absence was keenly felt as the Cavaliers struggled to replicate their offensive production against the formidable Celtics. For their part, the Celtics capitalized on their superior firepower and cohesion to maintain control over events.
Main Performances
Led by the dynamic duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, the Celtics showcased their scoring prowess, with Tatum delivering a stellar performance of 33 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists.
Brown complemented Tatum's brilliance with 27 points on an efficient 9-of-15 shooting from the field. The two players demonstrated remarkable chemistry and the ability to thrive under pressure, posing a formidable challenge for the Cavaliers' defense.
In addition to the stellar play of Tatum and Brown, the Celtics received valuable contributions from role players such as Jrue Holiday and Payton Pritchard.
Holiday in particular stood out as an important element to the Celtics' complement, showing championship pedigree and versatility on both sides of the court.
His impactful contributions, comprising 16 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals and a block, defined his ability to influence the outcome of the game in multiple facets.
Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla praised Holiday's evolving role within the team, noting his increasing assertiveness and his transformative effect on their collective performance. Mazulla commented, "He's starting to be more aggressive on the offensive end. When he's aggressive, both he, Derrick, and our bench, we're a different team."
Although the Celtics enjoyed a solid lead for much of the game, the Cavaliers offered resistance, especially in the third quarter when they briefly took the lead.
However, the Celtics' composure and execution down the stretch proved crucial in securing the victory.
Their defensive intensity and timely accuracy allowed them to thwart the Cavaliers' comeback attempts, preserving their lead and securing a crucial win away from home.
them boys at it again 😤 pic.twitter.com/ie5cpUqBTU
- Boston Celtics (@celtics) May 14, 2024
Tough outlook for Cleveland
Now the Cavaliers face an uphill battle as they look to keep their aspirations of advancing to the next phase alive.
Uncertainty surrounds the availability of both Mitchell and Jarrett Allen for Game 5, further complicating their chances against a Celtics that won't budge. With the series now tilted heavily in Boston's favor, the Cavaliers will need to make adjustments if they hope to stage a comeback.
The Celtics' Game 4 win underscores their status as formidable title contenders, while the Cavaliers must overcome adversity and find a way to bounce back.