Celtics Survive Pacers' Late Surge in Overtime Thriller, Take Game 1 of Eastern Conference Finals

In Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Boston Celtics defeated the Indiana Pacers 133–128 in overtime, but not before putting up a fierce fight.

With 36 points, including a big 10 points in overtime, Jayson Tatum led the Celtics. Jaylen Brown emerged victorious, forcing overtime with a game-tying 3-pointer with only 6.1 seconds remaining in regulation. Jrue Holiday, who scored a season-high 28 points, also had an outstanding outing.

With 56 points in the paint and 13 3-pointers, the Pacers demonstrated their offensive strength despite the absence of Kristaps Porzingis. 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 costly ones in the last 30 seconds of regulation that gave the Celtics the opportunity to tie the game.

Pacers coach Rick Carlisle praised his team’s effort despite the defeat and underlined the necessity for them to grow from their mistakes and win in Game 2.

In the end, the Celtics’ defense—led by three thefts apiece from Brown, Tatum, and Holiday—proved to be the deciding factor. In addition, the three of them accomplished a historic first: they were the first in NBA playoff history to each record more than 25 points and three steals in a single game.

It was an exciting and hotly contested game because both teams showed tenacity and resolve. In Game 2, the Celtics will look to continue their winning streak and take a 2-0 lead, while the Pacers will try to rally and even the series.

The second game of this highly anticipated matchup between these two Eastern Conference heavyweights is set to take place in Boston on Thursday.