In recent playoff seasons, the Boston Celtics have displayed consistent patterns: extended series, struggles at home, and dominance on the road. While it's unclear if they can alter the first two tendencies, their performance in Game 3 against the Cleveland Cavaliers reinforced the third.
In a match where defense shone and star players Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown delivered standout performances, the Celtics clinched a 106-93 victory, taking a 2-1 lead in the series.
"We were determined to bounce back after our Game 2 performance," Tatum remarked. "This was a crucial opportunity for us to step up, play with more intensity, and execute better."
Over the past three seasons, Boston has maintained a balanced 14-14 record in 28 home playoff games, a peculiar statistic in NBA history. Despite this, they reached the NBA Finals in 2022 and the conference finals last season. Their strength lies in their impressive 17-7 record on the road during these seasons, a trend that positions them as favorites for another deep playoff run this year.
Following a lackluster showing in Game 2, which included what Brown described as an "unacceptable" defensive display, the Celtics elevated their game on both ends of the court in Game 3, securing another crucial road win — their fifth consecutive in the postseason dating back to last year.
Tatum and Brown spearheaded the offensive charge, tallying a combined 61 points, with Tatum contributing 33 and Brown 28, while the team shot an efficient 51% from the field and 38.2% from beyond the arc.
"We need everyone on the same page, giving their maximum effort," Brown emphasized. "That's the key. When we synchronize our efforts and play with intensity, we have the talent to defeat any team. But if we falter in our unity and effort, we encounter difficulties. So, it's about maintaining focus and intensity, reminding everyone of our purpose before each game."
This mindset translated into a remarkable defensive performance by the Celtics, despite Donovan Mitchell's stellar 33-point display for the Cavaliers. Boston effectively contained Cleveland's other offensive threats, limiting their scoring options apart from Mitchell and Evan Mobley, who managed 17 points despite an injury setback in the third quarter.
Looking ahead to Game 4, the Celtics recognize the importance of sustaining their road form to seize control of the series. They aim to avoid the complacency that led to their Game 2 stumble and remain vigilant in maintaining their defensive intensity.
"In the playoffs, anything can happen, especially if you underestimate your opponent," Brown cautioned. "We can't afford to assume this series will unfold like the last. We must approach Game 4 with the same defensive intensity and urgency."
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