INDIANAPOLIS — This time, the Boston Celtics made it to the Eastern Conference finals without facing unwarranted criticism or calls to dismantle the team.
This time, the Celtics sealed a 105-102 victory against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, completing a clean sweep of the series. The game witnessed a late surge by the Celtics, who were trailing for most of the match. Jayson Tatum’s driving dunk tied the game at 100-100, followed by Jaylen Brown’s clutch 8-foot jump shot to level the score at 102-102. Brown then showcased his defensive prowess by blocking Andrew Nembhard’s potential game-changing 3-pointer with 1:05 left on the clock.
And then, Derrick White sealed the deal with a pivotal 3-pointer with just 45 seconds remaining. This shot came after the Celtics made a remarkable comeback from an 8-point deficit with 5:56 left on the clock and a 5-point gap with 4:14 remaining.
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White’s game-winning shot fell on the anniversary of his memorable buzzer-beater against Miami in last year’s Eastern Conference finals. However, the Celtics of 2024 are a different breed than the team of 2023. Jaylen Brown emphasized this post-game, highlighting the team’s evolution over the years.
Brown candidly expressed his surprise at being named the series MVP, jokingly remarking on his lack of previous accolades. Despite his stellar performance in the series, Brown remains humble and focused on the team’s success.
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While Brown might not have received individual accolades in the past, his contributions to the Celtics’ success are undeniable. The team, led by Tatum and Brown, has found its rhythm and is poised for a competitive NBA Finals showdown with a solid supporting cast.
The Celtics have yet to clinch a championship, despite their recent success. The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but the team’s work ethic and tenacity have been key to their progress.
Reflecting on their recent victories, White emphasized the team’s versatility and resilience in the face of adversity.
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While some may argue that the Pacers did not put up a strong fight, the Celtics’ resilience and determination cannot be overlooked. The team’s stellar performance in the playoffs demonstrates their readiness for the challenges ahead.
(Photo of Derrick White’s winning shot over Aaron Nesmith: Dylan Buell / Getty Images)