The Boston Celtics survived a wild and intense Game 1 at home in the Eastern Conference Finals, edging out the Indiana Pacers in overtime. The Pacers let a prime opportunity slip through their fingers, and this loss will likely haunt them, given how rare it is to snag a road win in the playoffs.
Key Takeaways from Game 1 (Besides Jaylen Brown's Heroics)
Here are the five big takeaways from Game 1 that don’t revolve around Jaylen Brown hitting clutch corner threes.
1. Jrue Holiday Was Boston’s MVP
Jaylen Brown may have hit the big shot to force overtime and Jayson Tatum led the scoring, but Jrue Holiday was the Celtics' standout player. Without him, Boston wouldn't have won Game 1. As Jaylen Brown put it, "Shoutout to Jrue. He's the reason why we won this game… That was special from Jrue Holiday.”
Holiday was a force on offense, attacking Tyrese Haliburton to notch a season-high 28 points on 10-of-16 shooting, along with eight assists and seven rebounds. His defense on Haliburton, especially in overtime, was even more crucial. "Holiday is the best defender in the NBA and has been for a long time…" Haliburton admitted postgame. “I'll learn from it and I'll be better in Game 2.”
Holiday, the only Celtic with a championship ring, was brought in by Brad Stevens for exactly these moments. While many Celtics had an up-and-down night, Holiday’s steady presence was indispensable.
2. Turnovers Plagued the Pacers
The Pacers’ failure to protect the ball was costly. They turned it over 22 times—nearly 20% of their possessions. Each of these mistakes handed Boston opportunities, ultimately converting into 32 points for the Celtics in a game that needed overtime to be decided. If Indiana wants to keep the series competitive, they need to tighten up their ball control.
3. Boston Almost Lost Playing Indiana’s Game
For much of the night, especially in the first half, the Celtics fell into the trap of playing the Pacers' fast-paced, free-flowing game. Boston initially raced to a 12-0 lead but allowed Indiana’s style to dictate the pace, resulting in a 64-64 tie by halftime. Although Boston improved in the second half, they need to play their game—focused and controlled—if they want to win the series.
4. The Fouling Debate: LeBron Weighs In
Rick Carlisle’s decision not to foul late while up three points will be scrutinized. After a turnover with 8.5 seconds left, Indiana didn’t foul, allowing Brown to hit a game-tying three. LeBron James, from home, commented on this common debate, emphasizing the importance of fouling in such situations to prevent a game-tying shot.
5. The Absence of Kristaps Porzingis
Kristaps Porzingis’ absence was keenly felt, especially when the Pacers targeted Al Horford at the game’s end. Porzingis' defense, three-point shooting, and mobility could have made a significant difference. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Porzingis is eyeing a Game 4 return. The Celtics will need whatever contributions he can provide, even if he's not at 100%.
The Celtics have taken the early lead in the series, but the Pacers are sure to come back fighting. With these key takeaways in mind, Game 2 promises to be just as thrilling.
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