Just a year ago, the Boston Celtics faced a daunting 3-0 deficit in the Eastern Conference finals, ultimately nearly orchestrating a historic comeback. Now, with a chance to secure a spot in the NBA Finals once again after narrowly clinching Game 3 against the Indiana Pacers, the Celtics remain cautious, acknowledging the arduous task ahead in Game 4.
Coach Joe Mazzulla reflects on last year's experience, emphasizing the importance of learning from past challenges and leveraging that knowledge to navigate the current playoff landscape. Despite their recent postseason success, with five East finals appearances in seven seasons, the Celtics aim to return to the NBA Finals, having last reached the pinnacle in 2022.
Boston's dominance throughout the regular season and playoffs underscores their championship aspirations, but they face a resilient Pacers team determined to extend the series. Indiana, led by coach Rick Carlisle, remains undeterred despite injuries, with a focused approach to disrupt Boston's offensive rhythm and force a Game 5 showdown.
As the Celtics seek to close out the series, their defensive strategy focuses on limiting Indiana's interior scoring prowess, with particular attention to improving rim protection in the absence of Kristaps Porzingis, who remains sidelined due to injury.
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