Celtics Survive Pacers' Upset Bid in Overtime Thriller

In Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Boston Celtics defeated the Indiana Pacers 133–128 in overtime, almost missing an upset. After defeating the Knicks in a thrilling Game 7, the Pacers almost snatched the game in Boston with some excellent shooting and a strong showing.

With 5.7 seconds remaining in regulation, Jaylen Brown saved the day for the Celtics by making a game-winning 3-pointer after the Pacers turned the ball over. Brown had seven rebounds, five assists, and 26 points in the end. Despite having trouble late in both regulation and overtime, Jayson Tatum finished with 36 points.

The Pacers fought back from deficits again and time again, seizing the lead for the first time in the third quarter. Their effective two-point shooting, which was a defining feature of their shock victory over New York, allowed them to stay in the contest even in Kristaps Porzingis’ absence due to a calf injury.

For the Celtics, Jrue Holiday had an outstanding game with 28 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists. He complimented the group’s tenacity and their capacity to produce huge plays when it counted most.

Joe Mazzulla, the coach of the Boston Celtics, recognized the fierce rivalry between the two teams and predicted that the remainder of the series would be just as competitive. In order to avoid continuing their trend of dropping the second game in each of the previous two series, the Celtics will try to recover in Game 2.

Tatum underlined how crucial it is to stay focused and not let up following the narrow victory. To take a decisive lead in the series, the Celtics will need to up their play on home floor and counter the Pacers’ challenge.