Boston Celtics Take Control of the Series

First Playoff Clutch Win Secures 3-1 Lead Over Cleveland Cavaliers

Keys to the Victory

The Boston Celtics passed their first major clutch test of the playoffs on Wednesday night, defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 113-98 in Game 5 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series. The win gives the Celtics a commanding 3-1 lead, putting them one game away from advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals for the third consecutive season.

The game was a back-and-forth affair, with neither team leading by more than 7 points until the fourth quarter. The Celtics finally broke the game open in the final period, outscoring the Cavaliers by 32-18. Jayson Tatum led the way for the Celtics with 27 points and 10 rebounds, while Jaylen Brown added 22 points and Marcus Smart chipped in with 17 points and 7 assists.

The Celtics' victory was due in large part to their defense, which limited the Cavaliers to just 36.8% shooting from the field. Cleveland was also unable to hit from three-point range, making just 6 of 31 attempts. The Celtics also forced 14 Cavaliers turnovers, which they converted into 21 points.

The Celtics will look to close out the series when they host the Cavaliers in Game 6 on Friday night. The Cavaliers will need to find a way to win on the road if they want to force a Game 7 on Sunday.