Approximately 150 days after the Boston Celtics triumphed over the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals, the Pacers achieved a significant victory on October 30. At Gainbridge Fieldhouse, they defeated the Celtics 135-132 in an intense overtime battle, marking Boston’s first loss of the season.
Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle commended the Celtics post-game, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high energy against such a formidable opponent. “If you slow down against Boston, this is what they are capable of,” Carlisle noted, reflecting on the challenging nature of the matchup.
The sold-out crowd of 17,274 fans in Indianapolis provided a raucous atmosphere, fueling the Pacers’ motivation. This game was particularly meaningful for the team, serving as redemption after their previous playoff defeat to the Celtics.
Despite Boston’s explosive start, led by Jayson Tatum’s 37 points and strong contributions from Jaylen Brown and Derrick White, the Celtics struggled with their energy throughout the game. Brown acknowledged this, stating, “Our energy was lackluster, a lot of that is on me.”
In contrast, the Pacers showcased a balanced offensive attack. Bennedict Mathurin made a triumphant return, scoring a season-high 30 points and pulling down 11 rebounds, while Pascal Siakam added 29 points and delivered a pivotal three-pointer in overtime. Tyrese Haliburton was also instrumental, providing 12 assists and 17 points to facilitate the offense.
As the game neared its conclusion, the Celtics attempted a comeback, outscoring Indiana 38-24 in the final frame. However, the Pacers secured victory in overtime with Siakam’s crucial shot, while Boston’s shooting plummeted in extra time.
Contributions from Indiana’s bench were vital, with players like Obi Toppin and Aaron Nesmith adding significant points and energy. The Pacers’ bench combined for 45 points, showcasing depth that will be essential as they navigate the season.
This game signifies a promising outlook for the Pacers, demonstrating their capability to compete against elite teams in the league. With resilience and depth in their lineup, the Pacers look forward to their next challenge against the Pelicans on November 1.
In summary, the Pacers’ victory against the Celtics not only illustrates their growth as a team but also sets a positive tone for the rest of the season, showing that they can succeed against strong competition.