The Rafters Ep. 110: Pacers Down Celtics In Quarter Finals

The once juggernaut Boston Celtics are standing on weaker knees recently. The few week absence of Kristaps Porzingis opened eyes to Boston’s defense or lack their of without their 7 foot shot blocking sniper. This weakest link has never been more apparent than the last two games.

A third rematch against the injured Philadelphia 76ers should have been a time to flex your muscles on a division rival. Instead without Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia rallied to push Boston on their heels. Patrick Beverly had the game of his life as the Celtics won the game by a mere 6 points. A paint that was hollow of Kristaps Porzingis allowed Beverly and the other Sixers to cut to the rim with ease. Challenging very little of the enemy’s attempts at the cup.

After a few days off, The Boston Celtics had the Indiana Pacers in their way. A stepping stone on the way to the first In-season tournament championship, or so Celtics fans thought. Pacers star guard Tyrese Haliburton spoke favorably of the new tournament saying “I’ve never anything won before (so this gives me a chance to win something)”. Number 0 certainly had winning on his mind against the Boston Celtics. While he started out slow, Boston’s Number 0 came out scalding hot. Tatum established his presence early and often hitting shot from anywhere and everywhere. Come the second quarter, Haliburton followed suit and a duel was on the viewers hands. Once again the loss of POrzingis allowed players like Tyrese, Toppin, and McConnell to have their way in the paint. Driving to the rim with little resistance from slow footed Luke Kornet. Boston lost the game as their team cooled off and Haliburton heated up at just the right time. Putting Boston out of the tournament in 122-112 fashion.