Four Key Insights as Celtics beat Pacers after historic scoring half…

The Celtics secured a 129-124 victory over the Pacers at TD Garden on Tuesday night, fending off a second-half surge from their opponents. Boston dominated the first half with an impressive offensive display, notching a season-high 81 points, primarily fueled by the starting five’s 75 points. Although the Pacers rallied in the third quarter, outscoring Boston 37-25 and erasing a 20-point deficit, the Celtics tightened their defense in the fourth quarter, limiting Indiana to just 21 points and clinching their second consecutive win. Jayson Tatum led the charge for Boston with 30 points, supported by Jaylen Brown’s 25 points, and Kristaps Porzingis contributed a double-double (17 points, 12 rebounds) in his return from an ankle sprain. Despite Aaron Nesmith’s impressive performance of 26 points and 12 rebounds for the Pacers, Boston improved to 2-1 on their homestand, setting the stage for a matchup against the Lakers on Thursday night.

1. Best offensive first half of the season: The Celtics showcased their offensive prowess in the first half, setting a season-high record of 81 points on an efficient 57 percent shooting from the field. This remarkable achievement marked the franchise’s best first-half performance since 1982. The 81-point total ranked as the fourth-highest in a half for the franchise, narrowly missing the record of 85, achieved three times, most recently in 1983. Notably, Boston’s starters, led by Jayson Tatum (23 points) and Derrick White (19 points), contributed significantly to this offensive outburst.
2. Boston gets crushed on the glass in the first three quarters: Despite the Celtics’ offensive brilliance, their struggles on the boards allowed the Pacers to stay competitive. Although not known for strong offensive rebounding, the Pacers capitalized on Boston’s weaknesses, amassing 17 offensive rebounds in the first three quarters. This dominance translated to a substantial 27-4 advantage in second-chance points, enabling Indiana to erase a significant 20-point deficit in the second half. The Pacers exploited a shorthanded Boston frontcourt and fatigued Celtics team on the second night of a back-to-back.
3. Celtics take advantage of Pacers injury limitation: The return of Tyrese Haliburton to the Pacers’ lineup after a hamstring injury added a spark, with the All-Star point guard contributing 13 points and 10 assists in just 22 minutes. However, due to limited playing time as per trainer orders, Haliburton sat out the crucial 18 minutes of the game. Boston capitalized on this strategic decision, holding off the Pacers’ comeback attempt and securing the win. Rick Carlisle’s decision to stick with Haliburton’s regular minutes early in the game ultimately played into the Celtics’ favor.
4. Aaron Nesmith looks like a keeper for the Pacers: Former Celtics draft pick Aaron Nesmith showcased his development into a key player for the Pacers. Leading the team with 26 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists in 41 minutes, Nesmith displayed both scoring prowess and all-around contribution. His growth from a role player to an established starter over the past two years with the Pacers reflects improved shooting consistency and control. As the Celtics explore options for another wing at the trade deadline, Nesmith’s standout performance raises intriguing reflections on what might have been in Boston.