Defending champions Toronto Raptors suffered a defeat in the first match of their NBA Playoffs semifinal against Boston Celtics, going down 1-0 in a series that could potentially get to seven games.
This is the second time Celtics will defeat Raptors since the NBA restarted last month in Orlando, and with today’s 112-94 victory, it is a massive statement of intent that they could challenge for the title this season.
1-0 ☘️ #CelticsWin pic.twitter.com/jWypjFXkY3
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) August 30, 2020
Celtics didn’t waste any time to assert their dominance, going out to a 16pt blowout lead after the first quarter (39-23) and held a 17pt lead at Half time. Although Raptors tried to fight back in the 3rd quarter, cutting it down to a 15pt game, Boston further outscored them in the 4th quarter by 3pts to win the match by a big margin of 18pts.
Cameroon’s Pascal Siakam made double digits for Raptors, hitting 13pts, 3reb and 2ast. OG Anunoby was also at double points for the Canadian franchise, making 12pts and 7reb. Anunoby also made two blocks in the game.
Falling away, off one leg, to beat the horn! #NBAPlayoffs @celtics 88@Raptors 73
4th quarter next on ESPN pic.twitter.com/VJvoMYSwV7
— NBA (@NBA) August 30, 2020
Raptors’ shooting wasn’t very good on the day, with the team making a combined total of 10 outside shots, in contrast to Celtics who made a team total of 17 outside shots.
Meanwhile for Celtics, Semi Ojeleye was on the court for 22mins: 34s and he made 3pts for his team, and also one steal. Both teams will return to the court on Tuesday for Game 2 of the series.
Regroup, refocus & move onto Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/TsUEofLi8V
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) August 30, 2020
