Cavaliers Fall to Celtics in Game 1 of NBA Playoff Series

Boston Dominates Cleveland in 120-95 Victory

Live Coverage of the Series on ESPN

The Boston Celtics continued their impressive run in the NBA Playoffs on March 5, dominating the Cleveland Cavaliers 120-95 in Game 1 of their first-round series. The Celtics, who have won eight of their last nine games, were led by Jayson Tatum, who scored 25 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Jaylen Brown added 22 points, and Marcus Smart contributed 18 points and 10 assists for Boston.

The Cavaliers were led by Darius Garland's 25 points, but they struggled to keep pace with the Celtics' high-powered offense. Cleveland shot just 37.5% from the field and 27.3% from three-point range, while Boston shot 48.8% from the field and 41.2% from three-point range.

The Celtics took control of the game in the second quarter, outscoring the Cavaliers 33-18 to take a 12-point lead into halftime. Boston continued to extend its lead in the third quarter, outscoring Cleveland 32-20 to take a 22-point lead into the fourth quarter.

The Cavaliers made a run in the fourth quarter, cutting the Celtics' lead to 10 points with just over three minutes remaining. However, Boston held on for the victory, thanks to some clutch free throw shooting by Tatum and Brown.

Game 2 of the series is scheduled for March 7 in Boston. The Celtics will be looking to take a 2-0 lead in the series, while the Cavaliers will be looking to even the series at 1-1.