BOSTON — The Celtics have endured their playoff criticisms, but as expected, they’re another step closer to their lofty goals. The C’s defeated the Cavaliers 113-98 in Game 5 on Wednesday at TD Garden, locking up the East semifinals with a 4-1 series victory.
It marks the third straight season the C’s have qualified for the East Finals, though they’re still eight wins away from hanging Banner No. 18. But the most important part, for now, is that the Celtics have needed just 10 games to collect their first eight playoff wins as they’ve impressed throughout the postseason.
The Cavaliers were again shorthanded, this time playing without three rotation players. But those available put up a pesky fight against the Celtics. Boston was able to create a bit of distance as it went on a 15-4 run to close out the first half. Former C’s forward Marcus Morris Sr. went off with 14 points in the first half alone for the Cavs.
Fanatics Sportsbook
10X$100 BONUS BET
BET MATCH BONUS
Must be 21+. GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO, KY ,MD, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV); (888) 789-7777 or ccpg.org (CT); 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA); (800) 327-5050 or gamblinghelpline.org (MA), mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1800gambler.net (WV)
While the Celtics tried to pull away in the third quarter, the Cavs continued to keep it within striking distance. Morris was a huge factor, as was big man Evan Mobley who punished the Celtics near the rim. The C’s had trouble guarding Mobley on a few possessions as he was able to get free inside to score in the paint.
The Cavs tried to keep it close from there, but the Celtics finally broke through midway through the fourth quarter. The Cavs again fought hard despite missing multiple contributors, but the Celtics were just too much at home. Now, the Cavs enter an important offseason with multiple question marks. On the flip side, the C’s are a step closer to the pinnacle of the sport.
Jayson Tatum had 25 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Celtics. Al Horford dialed back the clock with 22 points and 15 rebounds. Derrick White added a nice bounce-back game with 18 points, five rebounds and six assists. Mobley had 33 points and seven rebounds, while Morris finished with 25 points. The C’s were without Kristaps Porzingis, but the Cavs didn’t have Donovan Mitchell, Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert.
The Celtics will now get a well-deserved break ahead of the East Finals. They’ll play either the Knicks or the Pacers, which New York currently leads 3-2. Here are four takeaways from Boston’s win over Cleveland:
Closing out the win: While the Cavs fought all night, the Celtics were able to sprint ahead. Even when they did build up a comfortable lead, they didn’t let the Cavaliers mount a real comeback attempt. That’s been an issue at times, but again, the C’s executed their way to a win. It wasn’t quite a clutch game as the Cavs never got it to within a five-point game late. But that’s a nod to the Celtics’ play as they were never too close to danger down the stretch of the game.
Turning it back: While Horford was criticized for his Game 4 performance, he came ready to play Wednesday. Horford had nine points, three rebounds and three blocks by halftime as he also contributed some momentum-boosting plays. The 37-year-old will get some well-earned rest now between series as he’s had to shoulder the brunt of the burden with Porzingis out. There was a noticeable fire from Horford all night, making the hustle and momentum-changing plays as he ensured the Celtics wouldn’t fly back to Cleveland. The big man finished Game 5 with 22 points, 15 rebounds and five assists, including shooting 6-for-13 on his 3s.
Awaiting the winner: Now, a well-rested Celtics squad will get a team going through a long playoff series. The Knicks currently lead the Pacers in the other East semis 3-2, but the home team has won every game of that round. Ideally for the C’s, Knicks-Pacers goes the full seven games so they can maximize rest while getting a tired squad. The Knicks, too, have been hit hard by injuries. The C’s, on the other hand, will rest up their tired legs while hoping Porzingis ready to go for the East Finals.
Not messing around: Just like with the Heat series last round, the Celtics endured plenty of criticism after they dropped Game 2 at home. Then the C’s ripped off three straight victories to make sure they only needed five total games. It’s another sign of maturity from a C’s squad that has played with its food in past years. Now, the Celtics will get several days off before starting the East Finals. Those are extra points as they’ve earned that rest.
