Jaylen Brown had an outstanding performance, matching his career playoff high with 40 points to help lead the Boston Celtics to a 126-110 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Brown’s 10 points during a pivotal 20-0 run in the first half helped the Celtics take control of the game and ultimately secure a 2-0 series lead. Jayson Tatum and Derrick White also contributed with 23 points each, while Jrue Holiday added 15 points and 10 assists for the top-seeded Celtics. Pascal Siakam scored 28 points for the Pacers, who now trail in the series as they head home for Games 3 and 4.
The first quarter of the game featured a back-and-forth battle between the two teams, with the Pacers holding a slight 27-22 lead late in the period. However, Boston surged ahead with a 20-0 run that spanned over six minutes, fueled by Brown’s scoring outburst. Indiana struggled to find their rhythm during this stretch, missing nine consecutive shots and committing turnovers that allowed the Celtics to build a double-digit lead. Despite a strong start to the second half from Siakam, Boston maintained control of the game and never let the Pacers get within single digits again.
Brown’s performance in Game 2 came on the heels of his game-winning shot in the previous matchup, showcasing his ability to deliver in crucial moments for the Celtics. Despite being left off the All-NBA teams in favor of other players, Brown remained focused on the team’s success rather than individual accolades. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla praised Brown’s maturity and work ethic, emphasizing his understanding of the team’s goals and his own role within the group. Brown’s consistent contributions on both ends of the court have been instrumental in Boston’s success throughout the postseason.
The balanced scoring attack from the Celtics, led by Brown, Tatum, and White, has been a key factor in their playoff victories against tough opponents. The team’s resilience and ability to respond to challenges, such as losing Game 2 in previous series, have been evident in their performances against the Pacers. Facing a determined Indiana squad that has shown they can compete with the top seed, Boston will look to maintain their momentum and secure a commanding series lead as they head into Games 3 and 4 on the road. The Pacers will need to regroup and make adjustments in order to overcome the deficit and stay alive in the Eastern Conference Finals.
As the series shifts to Indiana for the next two games, the Celtics will face a hostile environment and a motivated Pacers team looking to even the score. Siakam’s scoring prowess and Haliburton’s playmaking abilities will be crucial for Indiana as they aim to bounce back and challenge Boston on their home court. The Celtics, led by Brown and a strong supporting cast, will need to stay focused and execute their game plan to close out the series and advance to the next round of the playoffs. With both teams showcasing their strengths and resilience, the Eastern Conference Finals promise to be a competitive and thrilling battle between two talented squads.
