Celtics Soar to Third Straight Eastern Conference Finals, Led by Tatum and Veteran Horford

After defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 113-98 in Game 5, the Boston Celtics advanced to the Eastern Conference finals for the third time in a row. With 25 points and 10 rebounds, Jayson Tatum led the Celtics. Al Horford followed with a career-high 22 points, 15 rebounds, and five assists.

At 37 years old, Horford made NBA history as one of the oldest players to record such a stat line in a postseason match. His outstanding performance—which included six 3-pointers—was vital to defeating the Cavaliers.

The Cavaliers, led by Evan Mobley’s postseason career-high 33 points, made a strong effort despite being severely weakened by injuries. But in the end, Boston’s depth and experience won out thanks to a strong late-game comeback by Tatum and Horford.

The Celtics’ remarkable performance, which includes their sixth trip to the conference finals in the past eight years, can be attributed to both the players’ ongoing development, especially Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.

With this loss, the Cavaliers’ difficult season full with injuries comes to a conclusion. The uncertainty surrounding the futures of important players like Donovan Mitchell and coach J.B. Bickerstaff gives the offseason even more excitement.

With its sights set on winning a championship, Boston is now waiting to see who wins the Knicks-Pacers series. The Celtics proved to be a strong challenger in the Eastern Conference with their overwhelming performance in Game 5, which was characterized by their tenacity and seasoned leadership.