The Boston Celtics handed the Cleveland Cavaliers a gentlemen’s sweep in the second-round playoff series between the two teams with a 113-98 win in Game 5. The Celtics are now heading to the Eastern Conference Finals for a third straight season.
The Celtics were expected to have an easy job in Game 5 as the Cavs were without three starters, including superstar shooting guard Donovan Mitchell. However, Cleveland ended up putting up a brave resistance, and Boston needed a strong fourth quarter to finish things off.
Jayson Tatum led the way for the Celtics with 25 points, 10 rebounds, and nine rebounds, while veteran Al Horford put together a vintage performance with 22 points, 15 rebounds, and five assists.
“I’m happy because I was able to help the team win this game,” said Horford after the game. “We have to give Cleveland credit. They were depleted and they just did not quit. They really pushed us to the brink.”
The Celtics were the best team in the NBA during the regular season, finishing with a 64-18 record. They didn’t slow down in the playoffs, wrapping up both playoff series against the Miami Heat and the Cavs in five games. They are now waiting to see who their next opponent will be from the New York Knicks vs. Indiana Pacers matchup.