The Boston Celtics took down the Washington Wizards in emphatic fashion, winning 118-100 in the first-ever NBA play-in game.
Jayson Tatum erupted for 50 points against the Wizards and was getting whatever he wanted to close the game out. Kemba Walker also chipped in with a stellar performance, scoring 29 points to go along with 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals. Walker flashed and dazzled, as it seems the all-star guard is at full health.
The Celtics now advance to take on the Brooklyn Nets in round one of the playoffs. Brad Stevens commented on the massive challenge ahead of them in his postgame presser. He had this to say:
“Just generally… it’s really hard to make the NBA Playoffs… every year presents unique challenges… we’ve been through a lot, so we’re hardened in a lot of ways… we’ll get ready for Brooklyn starting on Thursday… those guys are the best of the best… we’re going to have to play great… we’re going to have to be really, really sound on both ends of the floor.”
With the win, Boston clinched the seven-seed in this year’s NBA Playoffs. As mentioned, they will now face the Nets in round one, setting up a highly anticipated matchup against former-Celtic Kyrie Irving. The first game of that series takes place this Saturday, May 22.
