Cavaliers Defeat Celtics, 117-104, in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals

The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Boston Celtics, 117-104, in Game 1 of the
Eastern Conference Finals at TD Garden on Wednesday. Wire-to-wire wins are rare
in the playoffs and it’s even more impressive when it comes in such dominating
fashion on the road. That’s what Cleveland did here, as they held at least a
double-digit lead for the final three quarters. Free-throw shooting was the
difference in the game, with Cleveland hitting 28-of-35 and Boston going just
10-of-18 from the charity stripe. The nine steals by the Cavaliers was a huge
factor as well, as that led to a 17=8 turnover differential. The 13-point final
scoreline was not indicative of how this game was played, with Cleveland leading
by 28 points in the third quarter and the starters resting for the final four
minutes. The Cavaliers (1-0) had over a week off after their dominating series
against the Toronto Raptors, as they looked like the far superior team in this
Game 1. LeBron James was the player of the game, as he collected 38 points, nine
rebounds, seven assists and two steals in the victory. Kevin Love finished with
32 points and 12 rebounds, while going 6-of-9 from three-point range. Tristan
Thompson totaled 20 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two steals on a
perfect 7-of-7 shooting. The Celtics (0-1) have had to grind out their first two
series’ of these playoffs and they looked exhausted against this well-rested
Cavaliers team. Jae Crowder was Boston’s best player, as he tallied 21 points,
eight rebounds and five assists. Avery Bradley matched those 21 points, adding
four rebounds in his 39 minutes of action. Isaiah Thomas accrued 17 points and
10 assists, despite going 7-of-19 from the field. Al Horford amassed 11 points,
eight rebounds and six assists. Game 2 will be in Boston on Saturday.