Opinion
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Indiana Pacers' Paint Play vs Boston Celtics' Perimeter Power at TD Garden

The Indiana Pacers are set to face the Boston Celtics in an upcoming game at TD Garden on June 2, 2024. Based on recent performances, the Pacers have shown a strong presence in the paint but have struggled to maintain consistency throughout games. This matchup will be a test of their ability to leverage their strengths against a formidable opponent.


INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MAY 27: Isaiah Jackson #22 of the Indiana Pacers blocks the basket during the game against the Boston Celtics during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on May 27, 2024 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

In their last encounter on May 28, the Pacers fell short with a score of 102-105 despite leading for over 24 minutes. Their performance was marked by effective scoring inside, with points in the paint contributing significantly to their total. However, turnovers and inconsistent shooting from beyond the arc were detrimental. The team managed only 34 percent from three-point range and committed 14 turnovers.


The Celtics, on the other hand, demonstrated resilience and efficiency in crucial moments. They capitalized on fast breaks and second-chance opportunities while maintaining solid defensive pressure throughout the game. Their ability to convert three-pointers at critical junctures proved decisive.


INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MAY 27: T.J. McConnell #9 of the Indiana Pacers drives to the basket during the game against the Boston Celtics during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on May 27, 2024 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

For Indiana (IND) to secure a win against Boston (BOS), they must focus on minimizing turnovers and improving perimeter defense. The previous games highlighted that while IND can dominate inside with players like Myles Turner and Domantas Sabonis contributing heavily in points in paint, they need better support from their bench players who scored only 34 points compared to BOS's more balanced attack.


Boston's strategy will likely revolve around exploiting IND’s weaknesses outside the arc while maintaining their defensive intensity that has been pivotal in previous victories. Jayson Tatum’s stellar form continues to be a significant factor for BOS as he consistently delivers under pressure.


INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MAY 27: T.J. McConnell #9 of the Indiana Pacers drives to the basket during the game against the Boston Celtics during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on May 27, 2024 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

The upcoming game is scheduled for June 2 at TD Garden starting at 8:00 PM Eastern Time and will be broadcasted live on ESPN. Fans can expect an intense battle where IND aims to outmaneuver BOS’s perimeter prowess with robust play inside the paint.

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