Celtics Rally Late, Beat Pacers in OT Thriller to Open Eastern Conference Finals

In Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Boston Celtics overcame a late deficit to defeat the Indiana Pacers 133-128 in overtime, thanks to a combined 62 points from Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.

With 6.1 seconds remaining in regulation, Brown made a crucial 3-pointer to tie the game. Tatum then took over in overtime, scoring 10 of his 36 points during that time. For the Celtics, Jrue Holiday made an additional contribution with a career-high 28 points.

The Pacers showed off their offensive prowess despite the defeat, scoring 56 points in the paint and making 13 3-pointers. With 25 points, 10 assists, and 12 rebounds, Tyrese Haliburton led the squad. Pascal Siakam chipped in with 24 points and 12 rebounds.

The Pacers, on the other hand, committed 21 turnovers in all, including two pivotal ones in the last 30 seconds of regulation that set up Brown’s game-winning jumper. The Pacers’ coach, Rick Carlisle, accepted responsibility for the late turnovers and said they were avoidable errors.

In the end, Brown, Tatum, and Holiday—three thefts apiece—led the Celtics’ defense, which was the decisive factor. Boston was able to win in overtime by forcing errors from their opponent and taking advantage of their errors.

This game was exciting and hotly contested because both sides showed tenacity and resolve. The Celtics want to maintain their momentum and establish a dominating 2-0 lead in the series, while the Pacers will try to mount a comeback in Game 2.

The Eastern Conference heavyweights are expected to engage in another fierce battle in Game 2, which is slated to take place in Boston on Thursday night.