The Celtics needed to avoid defeat in game 4 and they did just that in the end. Jayson Tatum and Al Horford each scored 30 points to lead the Boston Celtics to a game 4 116-108 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. The Celtics outscored the Bucks 43-28 in the fourth quarter. The Eastern Conference Semifinals series is now currently tied at 2-2.
It was yet another physical game with both teams showcasing their defensive intensity. The offense started to pick up in the second half. Giannis Antetokounmpo, who led the Bucks with 34 points and 18 rebounds, raised his game on both ends of the floor. The Bucks led 80-73 heading to the fourth quarter.
Fourth Quarter Celtics
The Celtics took over in the fourth thanks to Horford and Tatum. Whether it was a floater, mid-ranger or a dunk, Horford and Tatum got the job done. Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown each added 18 points for the Celtics, propelling Boston to the crucial victory.
Horford has been impressive throughout this series. He was the key to Boston’s pick-and-pop offensive schemes actually turning into points. However, what he has done so well is, in crunch time, finding ways to get to spots where he can catch a pass and quickly hit the shot. He is the glue to everything Boston does.
Bucks Struggles
Without Khris Middleton, the Bucks have struggled to score efficiently in the playoffs. The Bucks rely on isolation and that has been more difficult with only two players that can create. Giannis Antetokounmpo went 14-of-32 from the field in Game 4 and Jrue Holiday only made five of his 22 attempts.
Without Middleton, the workload on the two remaining members of the Big 3 has been overwhelming. They will need to improve on both ends of the floor to really take control of this series and also have to figure out how to defend better especially late in the game.
