Four Leaf Clover: Boston Celtics win OT thriller in Game 1

The Boston Celtics postseason started off with a bang. In the most exciting playoff game so far this year, the C’s clawed their way out of TD Garden with an OT win.

The Boston Celtics knew wins would not come easy in the postseason. As soon as it was announced that PG Kyrie Irving would miss the rest of the season, the Celtics knew maximum effort would be required to win in April.

That mindset was on full display in Game 1 of the first round against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Early on, the C’s took a 29-17 lead heading into the second quarter. It didn’t last long. The Bucks took control of the second quarter and would lead by three at the half.

The rest of the game was a dog fight. Only briefly did the Celtics lead by 10, most of the time the teams traded buckets and unsurprisingly the game was close down the stretch. Then, one of the craziest endings in playoff history ensued.

Before we get there, let’s start from the beginning.

Here is the first edition Four Leaf Clovers: Postseason Edition.

A little time to reminisce

Before playoff games take control of our thoughts, I figured now would be a good time to appreciate how good the Boston Celtics have been in the last few years. We fans have been very lucky compared to many other franchises around the league.

After just one bad year following the Paul Pierce/Kevin Garnett trade, the Celtics have made the playoffs in four straight seasons. Even more, head coach Brad Stevens has increased his win total in every season since joining the franchise. And even MORE, GM Danny Ainge has converted an awful post-Pierce/KG team into a NBA Finals contender in just a few years. Without any injuries, the Celtics would be the favorite to come out of the East this year.

Now, as the Celtics begin another postseason run, it is important to savor every moment. If Game 1 is any indication, we are in for yet another memorable postseason.

There, I think that was enough reminiscing. Let the games begin!

Give me more of Marcus Morris

Without Marcus Smart, the other Marcus stepped up in a big way off the bench. I guess he didn’t plan on stopping once the regular season ended.

In the second half, when the team needed points to maintain a slim lead, it was none other than Marcus Morris who made a few big shots. A corner three, a fadeaway jumper, a baseline layup, and then a putback dunk: Morris was showing his whole arsenal.

Even in the first half, Morris’ energy was key in keeping the Celtics in it. A four point play to end the half got the crowd on its feet, and don’t think for a second Marcus Morris didn’t know it.

All game, after any big play or shot, Morris couldn’t help but get pumped up. The crowd and the fans followed his lead. He was the conductor of a crowd who loves to play their instruments.

For the remainder of the series, Marcus Morris will be a factor. Good or bad. Based on Game 1, it’s looking like we’ll be seeing the good.

Terry Rozier for the win

Or so we thought.

After a miserable defensive possession by Terry Rozier resulted in a tie game, he made up for it. With the game tied, Rozier faked a drive, crossed over Eric Bledsoe, stepped back, and a drained a three. Celtics 96 Bucks 93, 0.5 seconds left. Barring a miracle, the Celtics were going to win Game 1

The feeling was incredible. For about 5 seconds. The Bucks prayers were answered as Khris Middleton swished a three from 30 feet out

Once everyone managed to shut their jaws and resume breathing, a replay confirmed the three. Usually, the best four words in basketball are “Overtime in the playoffs”. Not when you’re rooting for the one of teams. Especially if that team just gave up a miracle three at the buzzer.

At that point, I would have taken, “Celtics win Game 1”. Not quite yet.

A gritty overtime win

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Once the game got to overtime, everybody was clearly tired. Al Horford (44 minutes), Jayson Tatum (44 minutes), Jaylen Brown (45 minutes), and Terry Rozier (40 minutes) were giving every ounce of effort.

On the other end, Giannis Antetokounmpo (44 minutes) and Khris Middleton (47 minutes) weren’t slouching. Welcome to the playoffs, don’t get used to the bench.

In the extra period, Giannis was just as scary. A tomahawk dunk early put the Bucks up two, and based off the defensive effort on the play the Celtics were out of gas. Terry Rozier’s three at the end of regulation seemed like their last punch.

However, it was Rozier again with a three that put the Celtics ahead. Then, with Boston up one, Jayson Tatum made two plays to seal a victory.

First, he made an impossible layup driving to his left using his right hand over the Greek Freak. You know, just a casual off balance layup leaning away from the basket over a guy with a 7-foot winspan.

https://twitter.com/NBAonTNT/status/985606156008607744

Then, he saved two points on the other end with a block on Malcolm Brogdon. Sorry, Milwaukee. Jayson Tatum had something to say about you coming into Boston and leaving with a win.

Giannis would foul out, the Celtics made their free throws, Boston would lead for the rest of the game and take home the win. Everybody chipped in for a team true win.

On a cold day in Beantown, the fans put on their mittens and trotted out into the city with smiles on their faces. You can’t ask for anything more.

Next: Milwaukee Bucks vs. Boston Celtics: Coaching will outlast star power

What’s Next?

Jayson Tatum, Al Horford, Terry Rozier, Marcus Morris and the crew took home a big Game 1 victory. Game 2 is on Tuesday, and although it probably won’t be exciting as the premier I would suggest you still watch.