Tatum's 33 Lead Celtics to 109-102 Win Over Cavs, Seize 3-1 Series Lead
In Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, Jayson Tatum led the Boston Celtics to a 109-102 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, securing a commanding 3-1 series lead. Tatum's impressive performance, with 33 points, was complemented by Jaylen Brown's 27 points.
The Celtics now have the opportunity to close out the series in Game 5 at home on Wednesday night. Should a Game 6 be required, it will return to Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Friday.
The Cavaliers, plagued by injuries, faced the pivotal game without key players Donovan Mitchell and Jarrett Allen. Mitchell, the All-Star guard, was sidelined with a calf injury, while Allen, the team's leading rebounder, sat out due to rib issues. Their status for the remainder of the series remains uncertain.
Despite the absence of key personnel, the Cavaliers put up a resilient fight against the Celtics. “They laid it all out there,” Cleveland coach J.B. Bickerstaff said of his team. “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's standout performance included 11 rebounds and five assists, marking his second consecutive strong showing. Jrue Holiday contributed 16 points for the Celtics, who maintained their undefeated record away from home in the postseason, now standing at 4-0.
On the Cavaliers side, Darius Garland led the scoring with 30 points, supported by Evan Mobley and Caris LeVert, who each contributed 19 points.
While the game remained closely contested, the Celtics managed to maintain a lead throughout the fourth quarter. Despite Cleveland's efforts to narrow the gap, crucial plays by Brown, including a pivotal three-pointer, secured the win for Boston.
The Cavaliers expressed frustration with the free-throw discrepancy, noting that Boston attempted 24 free throws compared to Cleveland's seven. However, they acknowledged the Celtics' resilience and ability to capitalize on opportunities.
LeBron James, a former Cavaliers star, was in attendance, sparking speculation about his future as he approaches free agency. James, who received a warm reception from the Cleveland crowd, watched from courtside alongside his wife and agent.
Mitchell's absence was felt by the Cavaliers, who missed his offensive prowess, while Allen remained sidelined with his ongoing injury.
Despite setbacks, the Celtics remain optimistic, with center Kristaps Porzingis showing signs of progress as he works towards returning to the court.
The Celtics will look to capitalize on their momentum as they aim to close out the series on their home court in Game 5.
