The Boston Celtics’ frontcourt faced another setback in their Eastern Conference Finals matchup against the Indiana Pacers on Thursday. Center Luke Kornet left the game in the first quarter with a left wrist sprain. Kornet sustained the injury after contact with Pacers forward Pascal Siakam. Although he was classified as questionable, Kornet did not return to the game. Head coach Joe Mazzulla did not provide an update on Kornet's status post-game.
In Kornet's absence, Oshae Brissett, who previously played for the Pacers, stepped up in the second quarter. Brissett, who had not seen significant postseason minutes until now, contributed two points, three rebounds, and three steals in 18 minutes, finishing with a +18 on the night. Mazzulla praised Brissett's adaptability, emphasizing the importance of being open-minded with the lineup.
The Celtics are already dealing with the absence of Kristaps Porzingis, who has missed eight games due to a calf strain. Reports suggest that Porzingis might return for Game 4. Meanwhile, Al Horford has been logging heavy minutes, including 40 minutes in the Game 1 overtime win. In Game 2, Horford played 25 minutes, scoring six points and grabbing 10 rebounds.
On the Pacers' side, star point guard Tyrese Haliburton left the game with nine minutes remaining due to left leg soreness. Haliburton, who was recently named to the All-NBA Third Team, had no status update provided by head coach Rick Carlisle after the game. Haliburton noted the challenge of competing against one of his best friends, Oshae Brissett, during the series.
Celebrity Sightings: Bill Belichick and Ed Sheeran Attend Game 2
The TD Garden was buzzing with celebrity presence during Game 2. Former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick was spotted in Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens’ suite. Belichick, wearing a Blue Angels hat and a Washington Huskies shirt, has maintained a busy schedule since parting ways with the Patriots, including joining the "Manningcast" for Monday Night Football.
Current Patriots players Ja’Whaun Bentley, Anfernee Jennings, Shaun Wade, Joshuah Bledsoe, K.J. Osborn, and Kayshon Boutte also attended the game. Adding to the star-studded audience, singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, headlining the Boston Calling music festival, was seen courtside.
Tatum Continues to Shine
Jayson Tatum continues to impress, earning his third straight First-Team All-NBA selection. Head coach Joe Mazzulla commended Tatum’s ability to adapt and improve his game each year. Tatum had a slow start in Game 2, scoring only four points in the first half, but he found his rhythm in the second half, finishing with 23 points, six rebounds, and five assists. In Game 1, Tatum led the Celtics with 36 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, and three steals, including 10 points in overtime.
Carlisle Appreciates Boston Police Escort
Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle expressed gratitude to the Boston Police Department for providing a police escort to the TD Garden for Game 2. The escort significantly reduced their travel time, ensuring a smoother arrival. Carlisle, familiar with New England from his playing days with the Celtics, shared his appreciation for the efficient assistance.
As the series progresses, both teams will need to navigate their respective challenges, with the Celtics looking to extend their lead and the Pacers aiming to bounce back on their home court. Game 3 promises to bring more excitement and pivotal moments in this tightly contested Eastern Conference Finals
0 Comments