Game 1 - 07/05/2024
The Celtics started this series against Cleveland in a similar fashion to how they started their previous series against the Miami Heat. They completely obliterated the Cavs with yet another 3-point barrage, which was mainly thanks to Derrick White who nailed 7 shots from behind the arc. White continued a stellar shooting streak that stems back to game four in Miami. Jaylen Brown continued his excellent start to this post season run as he scored 32 points on 67% shooting, the Cavaliers really struggled to defend against Boston’s elite wing players. Boston led the entire way through this one, but they really managed to close out the game in the fourth quarter, Brown hit two 3-pointers to begin the period to open up a 25-point lead and the Celtics never looked back. The Celtics eventually claimed a resounding 120-95 victory to gain a 1-0 series lead.
Game 2 - 09/05/2024
This series really did show striking resemblance to the first round against the Heat as Boston put up a shambolic performance in game two against the Cavaliers. The biggest change from game 1 was once again the difference in 3-point attempts and makes for the Celtics, Boston shot just 23% from deep and allowed Cleveland to massively effect their offensive game plan. Unfortunately for Boston neither Jayson Tatum nor Jaylen Brown really played to the best of their abilities, which they would need to do to win this series, especially after the injury of Kristaps Porzingis in round on. The Cavaliers on the other hand made huge strides offensively, as Caris LeVert, Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell all scored 20+ to lead Cleveland to an impressive 118-94 game two victory.
Game 3 - 11/05/2024
After a really disappointing performance in game two, the Celtics needed to respond quickly to keep this series under their control. Boston did just that as Tatum and Brown completely took over, scoring 33 and 28 points respectively. There has been a lot of questions asked of Tatum’s ability to step up when his team needs him most but that was undeniable in this one. He dominated a weakened Cavalier defence without the presence of center Jarret Allen, but another underrated part of his game throughout this playoff run has been his exceptional rebounding. He hauled in 13 rebounds in this one which was a game high. For Cleveland their offense was stagnant aside from Mitchell and they failed to surpass 100 points. Boston retained their perfect road form in the postseason with a 106-93 victory.
Game 4 - 13/05/2024
The main stay of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ offense – Donovan Mitchell – was missing for game four of the Eastern Conference Semi Finals series, after sustaining a calf injury in game three. Considering Mitchell’s absence, it would be down to Cleveland's supporting cast to fill in, and Darius Garland did just that, he had struggled hugely in the first three games of this series, but he found his rhythm in this one. Garland scored 30 points and dished out 7 assists, however they were out gunned by Boston’s offensive firepower. Tatum and Brown played superbly once again as they combined for 60 points and led Boston to yet another impressive road win.
Game 5 - 15/05/2024
The Celtics returned to the TD Garden with the opportunity to close out the series, and they did just that. Veteran big man Al Horford put up not only his best performance of the postseason but perhaps the best game of his playoff career. Horford scored 22 points, hauled in 15 rebounds (including 7 offensive boards), dished out 5 assists, and even blocked three shots. For Cleveland Evan Mobley played superbly with his team’s season on the line, he had 33 points (a playoff career high) and grabbed 7 rebounds. Unfortunately for the Cavaliers Mobley’s stellar play was not enough to prevent the Celtics from advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals. The Celtics will now face the Indiana Pacers in the ECFs on Tuesday night looking to make the NBA finals for the second time in three seasons.
By Will C
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