In Cleveland, the Boston Celtics showcased their penchant for keeping things interesting, even when the odds seemed stacked in their favor. Despite facing an undermanned Cavaliers squad, the Celtics encountered some turbulence before securing a 109-102 victory in Game 4, putting them in a commanding 3-1 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Jayson Tatum, with LeBron James observing from courtside, spearheaded Boston's charge with an impressive 33-point performance. Jaylen Brown complemented Tatum's brilliance with 27 points of his own, setting the stage for a potential series-clinching showdown in Game 5 at home on Wednesday.
“It took us a little while to get going, and stop ball watching and play some basketball,” remarked Brown on their performance.
The Cavaliers, already grappling with injuries throughout the season, faced an uphill battle without key players Donovan Mitchell (calf) and Jarrett Allen (ribs), both sidelined for Game 4. Despite the adversity, Cleveland kept pace with the top-seeded Celtics, challenging them at every turn.
“They laid it all out there,” praised Cleveland coach J.B. Bickerstaff of his team's effort. “They gave us everything that they had. They competed at a high level. They played the game properly. I’m proud of the guys, the way they went out and scrapped and competed and gave ourselves a chance.”
Tatum continued his impressive form with 11 rebounds and five assists, while Jrue Holiday contributed 16 points for Boston, maintaining their flawless record away from home in the postseason.
Darius Garland led the charge for the Cavaliers with 30 points, supported by Evan Mobley and Caris LeVert, each contributing 19 points.
Despite Cleveland's resilience, Boston managed to maintain control, with Brown sealing the victory with a crucial 3-pointer late in the game, overcoming a spirited Cavaliers comeback attempt.
The discrepancy in free-throw attempts, with Boston taking 24 compared to Cleveland's seven, left the Cavaliers feeling aggrieved. Garland voiced his frustration, labeling the situation as "ridiculous."
Meanwhile, James, amidst speculation about his future in the NBA, made a notable return to his former home arena, receiving a warm ovation from the Cleveland faithful.
The absence of Mitchell and Allen due to injuries further compounded Cleveland's challenges, leaving their playoff aspirations hanging in the balance as they look ahead to Game 5.
Powered by Holiday's seven consecutive points, the Celtics surged ahead by 13 in the second quarter, seemingly poised to create a significant gap between themselves and the Cavaliers.
However, Cleveland mounted a spirited comeback, with Strus, despite previous struggles with his outside shooting, sinking consecutive 3-pointers during a 13-3 run. This resurgence allowed the Cavs to narrow the deficit to 62-57 by halftime.
Meanwhile, Boston's center Kristaps Porzingis remained sidelined for his fifth consecutive game. Despite this setback, the Celtics found encouragement in Porzingis's ability to engage in on-court activities, signaling progress in his recovery.
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