Celtics Sweep Pacers to Reach NBA Finals Amidst Indiana’s Injury Woes
*Boston Celtics 105, Indiana Pacers 102*
*Date:* Monday, May 27, 2024
*Location:* Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis
*Series:* Boston Celtics win Eastern Conference Finals 4-0
In a thrilling finish to the Eastern Conference Finals, the Boston Celtics completed a sweep of the Indiana Pacers with a 105-102 victory. Despite the Pacers’ determined effort, significant injuries played a critical role in their inability to secure a win and extend the series.
### Game Recap
The game was tightly contested from start to finish, with both teams exchanging leads. Indiana appeared to have control late in the fourth quarter, holding an 89-82 lead. However, Boston’s star duo of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum spearheaded a comeback, overturning the deficit and clinching the win for the Celtics.
### Key Injuries Impact Pacers
The Pacers’ performance was undoubtedly affected by the absence of key players due to injuries:
– *Bennedict Mathurin (SG):* Out for the season with a shoulder injury. Mathurin’s scoring ability (14.5 PPG) and defensive presence were sorely missed.
– *Jalen Smith (PF):* Sidelined due to illness. Smith’s contributions (9.9 PPG, 5.5 RPG) were crucial in maintaining depth in the Pacers’ frontcourt.
– *Tyrese Haliburton (PG):* Out with a hamstring injury. Haliburton, the team’s playmaker, and leading assist provider (20.1 PPG, 10.9 APG) was a significant loss for Indiana, disrupting their offensive rhythm and floor leadership.
These injuries left the Pacers undermanned, particularly in crucial moments when they needed experienced players to close out games.
### Celtics’ Resilience
Boston demonstrated exceptional resilience throughout the series, with this game marking the third time they rallied from behind to win. Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum were pivotal, particularly in the final minutes of Game 4, where they orchestrated the comeback from a seven-point deficit.
### Strategic Missteps
Indiana’s late-game strategy also drew criticism. LeBron James notably questioned their decisions in crunch time, highlighting how mental mistakes allowed Boston to capitalize and secure the win.
### Looking Ahead
With this victory, the Celtics advance to the NBA Finals, where they will face either the Dallas Mavericks or the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Mavericks, currently leading their series, are the likely opponents.
### Conclusion
The Pacers fought valiantly but were ultimately undone by critical injuries and strategic errors. Meanwhile, the Celtics’ ability to perform under pressure and capitalize on their opponents’ weaknesses bodes well for their championship aspirations.
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