Celtics Prevail in Game 3 of Eastern Conference Semifinals

Cleveland Cavaliers Fall Behind 2-1 in Series

Tatum Returns, Holiday Shines as Celtics Extend Lead

The Boston Celtics extended their lead in the Eastern Conference Semifinals on May 11, 2024, defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 120-113 in Game 3. The Celtics now hold a 2-1 advantage in the best-of-seven series.

Jayson Tatum, who missed the previous game due to injury, returned to the Celtics lineup and made an immediate impact. Tatum scored a team-high 32 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, while fellow All-Star Jaylen Brown added 25 points. Jrue Holiday also played a pivotal role, scoring 19 points and dishing out 10 assists.

The Cleveland Cavaliers put up a strong fight, but ultimately couldn't overcome the Celtics' balanced attack. Darius Garland led the Cavs with 27 points, while Jarrett Allen scored 24 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. Evan Mobley also had a strong game with 16 points and 10 rebounds, but it wasn't enough to prevent the loss.

The Celtics will look to take a commanding 3-1 lead in the series when Game 4 is played on May 13, 2024. The Cavaliers will need to find a way to contain Tatum and the rest of the Celtics' offense if they want to turn the series around.