Boston Celtics: 3 keys to taking series lead against Bucks in Game 5
With their backs against the wall, down two games to one, the Boston Celtics did not quit.
Game 4 was a must-win for the shamrocks as they took the floor in Milwaukee. From the start, the intensity was at an extremely high level for both teams.
The first quarter started off with the Bucks jumping ahead behind solid scoring from their ancillary players.
After the first twelve minutes of action, the C’s trailed by seven. During the next twelve minutes, Boston was able to claw their way back into the game. Trailing by just one at the half, the shamrocks had a real chance to tie this series up.
Two things stood in their way as Boston returned from half. The first was Giannis Antetokoumnpo and the second was the dreaded third quarter. Entering Game 4, Boston had been outscored 82-59 in the third quarter during this series. Game 4’s third frame was much of the same until Giannis made the grave mistake to taunt Al Horford. Even though the C’s were still outscored in the quarter by six, it was a much better twelve minutes.
Heading into the final 12 minutes of action, Boston fell behind by seven. In what may have ended as the best game of his career, Al Horford took over in the fourth. The big man dropped sixteen points, dominating in every aspect of the game. In addition to Al’s greatness, Jayson Tatum added 12 in the final 12 minutes to boost the C’s ahead. The duo each finished with 30 points on the night to propel Boston to the 116-108 victory.
With things tied back up at two apiece, the Celtics have now regained how court advantage as they head home to the Bay State for Game 5.
Robert Williams III, who missed Game 4 with a sore knee, is listed as a game-time decision for Game 5. The big man’s presence was missed in the previous game, as Brook Lopez had numerous dunks and finished at the rack.
Khris Middleton remains out for Milwaukee as he recovers from an MCL sprain. Middleton has progressed a bit as he has practiced with “light contact” as of late. George Hill, who has been limited since his return, is listed as probable as he continues to nurse an abdomen ailment.
Boston’s convincing, come from behind, Game 4 win, has propelled them to favorites in Game 5 as they return home. At The time of this writing, the Celtics are -5.5 point favorites.
Without any further delay, let’s take a look at 3 keys the Boston Celtics must hone in on, to take the series lead.