Boston Celtics Slam Pacers in Epic Win Game 2 of East Finals
In a thrilling Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Boston Celtics dominated the Indiana Pacers in a commanding victory, defeating their rivals 112-96 to take a 2-0 lead in the series. The Celtics, backed by an electric home crowd at TD Garden, delivered a stellar performance that left fans in awe and the Pacers scrambling for answers as they head into Game 3 with their backs against the wall.
From the opening tip, the Celtics came out firing on all cylinders. Jayson Tatum led the charge, showcasing his offensive versatility by knocking down mid-range jumpers, hitting threes, and attacking the rim with authority. His aggressive play set the tone for Boston early on, allowing them to establish a double-digit lead by the end of the first quarter.
Tatum wasn’t the only Celtic to shine. Jaylen Brown complemented his teammate’s efforts by chipping in with crucial shots and solid defense, while Marcus Smart added his trademark intensity on both ends of the floor. Together, the Celtics played with pace and precision, outscoring the Pacers 33-20 in the first quarter. Indiana found themselves struggling to match Boston’s energy and physicality, particularly on defense.
The Celtics' success in Game 2 was not just a result of their offensive prowess. It was also a defensive masterclass. Led by Defensive Player of the Year candidate Smart and veteran big man Al Horford, the Celtics stifled the Pacers' offense throughout the game. Indiana’s star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who had been sensational in the playoffs leading up to this series, was held to just 15 points on 6-of-17 shooting. Haliburton, known for his ability to both score and facilitate,freya porn was unable to find any rhythm as the Celtics’ defensive pressure forced him into tough shots and limited his playmaking opportunities.
Horford, fim set thai who has been the anchor of Boston’s defense all season, phim sex trai đẹp was particularly effective in neutralizing Indiana’s inside game. He limited the impact of Myles Turner, one of the league’s best shot-blockers and interior scorers, holding him to just 10 points and 6 rebounds. The Celtics’ defense forced the Pacers into difficult looks from beyond the arc, as Indiana shot just 28% from three-point range, well below their playoff average.
While the Celtics' starting lineup carried much of the load, their bench was a key factor in extending their lead. Malcolm Brogdon and Derrick White came off the bench to provide scoring, with Brogdon in particular showing why he was named the league’s Sixth Man of the Year. He scored 18 points, including several crucial baskets in the second half that helped Boston maintain their momentum.
Derrick White contributed with 11 points and strong perimeter defense, making sure the Pacers couldn't mount a comeback. The Celtics’ bench outscored the Pacers’ reserves 34-20, giving Boston a significant edge in depth and stamina as the game wore on.
WJEVOFor the Indiana Pacers, Game 2 was a story of missed opportunities and lapses in execution. Despite brief moments of offensive brilliance from Buddy Hield, who led the team with 24 points, the Pacers were unable to string together enough consistent offensive plays to challenge the Celtics' defense. Their inability to capitalize on second-chance opportunities, combined with poor three-point shooting, left them trailing for most of the game.
Coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged the team’s struggles in his post-game comments, stating, “We didn’t match their physicality, and we didn’t execute the way we needed to. Boston made us pay for our mistakes, and we need to make adjustments heading into Game 3.”
With the Celtics now holding a 2-0 series lead, the pressure is firmly on Indiana to regroup before Game 3 in Indianapolis. Boston, on the other hand, will be looking to continue their dominant play and potentially sweep the series. With the way the Celtics are playing, especially on the defensive end, they are emerging as the clear favorites to advance to the NBA Finals.
Coach Joe Mazzulla praised his team’s performance but cautioned against complacency. “We can’t get ahead of ourselves. We know Indiana is a tough team, and they’ll come out stronger in Game 3. We have to stay focused and keep executing.”
As the series shifts to Indianapolis, the Pacers will need to make significant adjustments if they hope to avoid falling into an insurmountable 3-0 deficit. Haliburton will need to find ways to break free from Boston’s suffocating defense, and Turner must assert himself more in the paint. Indiana’s role players, including Hield and Aaron Nesmith, will also need to step up and provide additional scoring to ease the burden on their star players.
For the Celtics, Game 3 presents an opportunity to put the Pacers on the ropes. If they can maintain the same level of defensive intensity and balanced offensive attack, Boston will be one step closer to securing their spot in the NBA Finals.
With the stakes rising and the pressure mounting, all eyes are on Game 3 in Indianapolis. Will the Celtics continue their march toward the Finals, or can the Pacers rally and make this a series? Fans won’t have to wait long to find out.
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