The Boston Celtics showcased their depth and firepower in a commanding 120-95 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first game of their second-round playoff series. Jaylen Brown and Derrick White emerged as the dynamic duo for Boston, with Brown scoring an impressive 32 points and White adding 25, including seven 3-pointers.
The Cavaliers struggled without their key center Jarrett Allen and couldn’t keep pace with the Celtics’ explosive start. Brown’s 15 points in the first quarter set the tone for the game, leading to a 59-49 halftime advantage for Boston. The Celtics’ momentum continued into the third quarter, highlighted by White’s 14 points and sharpshooting from beyond the arc.
Despite Donovan Mitchell’s valiant 33-point effort for Cleveland, the team’s overall shooting woes, especially from the 3-point line, hindered any comeback attempts. The Cavaliers’ starters were pulled early in the fourth quarter, signaling surrender as Boston extended its lead.
The Celtics’ balanced attack was notable even on an off shooting night for star Jayson Tatum. With multiple players capable of stepping up, Boston proved they could overcome a subpar performance from their top scorer and still secure a decisive win. The series continues with Game 2 in Boston, where the Celtics aim to maintain their dominant form.
—
Photo Credit: Zero99 / Shutterstock.com