Boston Celtics: 3 takeaways from Game 4 vs. Cavaliers

1. The Celtics left too many points on the table

The Celtics had another bad game on the road. Even though their play improved in the latter three quarters, there were still numerous instances throughout Game 4 where they failed to convert on opportunities that could have swung the game in their favor.

For instance, the Celtics missed three dunks in the first quarter. They were 19-for-34 in the restricted area for the entire game. Boston also went 0-for-6 on paint shots outside the restricted area. The C’s also shot 7-for-26 on 3-pointers above the break. We’ve already mentioned the team’s 1-for-7 mark in the first quarter, but things barely improved the rest of the way.

Boston turned things around from distance in the second quarter, sinking six of its 10 attempts. However, the C’s got cold again after halftime, going 2-for-11 in the second half, including 0-for-3 in the third quarter. As Boston scrapped to close the gap, those 3-pointers were crucial to turning the tide of the game. Unfortunately, the shots didn’t fall.

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As a result, the Celtics lost Game 4 and saw their 2-0 lead evaporate. Boston will need a more focused effort in Game 5 on Wednesday if it wants to reclaim control of this series.