Celtics Survive First Playoff Test, Defeat Pacers in Game 5
Led by Grant Williams, Celtics Outlast Pacers in Thrilling Game
Boston Ekes Out Crucial Victory with Team Effort
The Boston Celtics emerged victorious in a chaotic Game 5 of their first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night. Led by Grant Williams' playoff career-high 27 points and seven 3-pointers, the Celtics overcame a star performance by Kyrie Irving in his playoff return to Boston, where he once played.
The Celtics were without All-Star forward Jayson Tatum, who missed the game with a right thumb injury. Tatum's absence put more pressure on Williams and his teammates, who responded with a gritty performance. Williams, who has emerged as a key contributor for Boston this season, hit several clutch shots down the stretch to help the Celtics secure the victory.
The Pacers, who were led by Irving's 27 points and 10 assists, fought back from a 15-point deficit in the fourth quarter to tie the game with just over two minutes remaining. However, the Celtics held on for the win, with Williams hitting a key 3-pointer and Marcus Smart making a steal and layup in the final seconds.
The Celtics now lead the series 3-2 and can clinch a spot in the second round with a victory in Game 6 on Friday night in Indianapolis. Despite their dominant regular season, the Celtics have yet to reach their full potential in the playoffs. However, their Game 5 victory showed that they are capable of overcoming adversity and winning as a team.
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