The Boston Celtics, despite winning Game 1, seemed to have vengeance on their mind. After being pushed to overtime, the Shamrocks decided to remind everyone of their potential. Led by a resurgence of Jaylen Brown, who scored a playoff-high this season, Boston mauled all over the Indiana Pacers in Game 2. They struck with massive offensive runs and forced disruption in a seamless Pacers offense. Nothing went right for the Pacers.

Tyrese Haliburton, who had only just started returning to his tempo could score just 10 points before suffering from left leg soreness. Myles Turner, the shot-blocking monster, constantly fell deep into foul trouble, limiting his contributions. Along with all the chaos, there was then also a fight.

In the closing moments of the 4th quarter, with the Celtics adjourned winners in the minds of everyone, a scuffle occurred. Indiana’s Isaiah Jackson and Celtics forward Sam Hauser got tied up when battling for a rebound. The play was physical, something Jackson took exception to. He appeared to elbow the Celtics’ backup forward in the back, after which an argument ensued.

Jrue Holiday was amongst the first to intervene. He tried to play mediator while also protecting his 26-year-old teammate. However, Jackson’s rage had broken through its threshold. He and Holiday also shared some words, after which benches of both the teams and league personnel came onto the floor to diffuse the situation.

Hauser and Jackson were both hit with technicals. Jrue Holiday was seen as the peacemaker and escaped without any punishment.

Celtics show no mercy to the Pacers

Game 2 began similar to the first playoff battle between these two teams. The Indiana Pacers shot the ball incredibly and took a minor 2-point lead. From there, their grip slipped. It took them six minutes to score a point in the 2nd quarter. The Boston Celtics imposed their tenacious defense to fully halt the hot-shooting Pacers. They won the game by 16 points!

Tyrese Haliburton was shut down for the whole game. Holiday played magnificent defense on him, relentlessly tracking him for entire possessions. Pascal Siakam emerged as the lone warrior. He was the only Indiana player to have success against the succumbing defense of Boston. He ended the game with 28 points on 13 for 17 shooting.

Jaylen Brown replayed his Game 1 heroics tonight, setting the rhythm from the very beginning. His moves crumbled the Pacers’ defense and generated constant points for Boston. His game-high 40 points set him apart from any star on the court today. Tatum gladly took the complementary role, adding 23 points.

The Celtics have now successfully defended their palace. The true test is now. A win on the road is the biggest advantage to attain in a playoff series. Can the loaded Boston side pull off three wins on the trot? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

In other news, have you ever wondered why Shaq is so different in his punditry approach and what all went on to establish his brand? Well, we have you covered. EssentiallySports had the legend’s superagent Leonard Armato on board for a detailed chat.