The Boston Celtics looked sluggish on both ends of the floor to start Game 2 against the Indiana Pacers. Then, Oshae Brissett checked in. Brissett replaced an injured Luke Kornet, who was sidelined with a left wrist injury, prompting the Celtics to switch to a small-ball lineup at the start of the second quarter. Initially down by two points, the Celtics launched a remarkable 20-0 run and maintained their lead for the rest of the game, securing a 126-110 victory.
While Jaylen Brown’s outstanding 40-point performance, with 17 of those points scored in the second quarter, rightfully garnered most of the attention, Brissett’s contributions were pivotal yet subtle. The former Pacers player brought an infectious energy to the court. Within his first two minutes, he grabbed two rebounds and played staunch defense, helping to stymie Indiana’s offense and prevent them from scoring for the first six minutes of the frame. Brissett’s final statistics—two points, three rebounds, and three steals—might not jump off the page, but his impact was felt deeply by his teammates and the game’s flow. His presence was underscored by a +18 rating in just 12 minutes, tying Brown for the highest mark in the game.
Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla highlighted Brissett’s presence, energy, and athleticism, noting that his high level of intensity was crucial for the team’s performance. Before this game, Brissett had only seen the court during garbage time in the playoffs, playing a maximum of five minutes. He spoke about the significant differences between regular-season and postseason play, emphasizing the heightened preparation, focus, and attention to detail required in playoff games. This experience with a championship-caliber team was new for Brissett, and he expressed how it had sharpened his focus on the finer details of the game.
Despite Brissett’s contributions being overshadowed by Brown’s scoring, his teammates recognized and appreciated his efforts. Jrue Holiday, in particular, praised Brissett for staying ready despite limited playing time during the regular season and playoffs. Holiday pointed out Brissett’s immediate impact upon entering the game, capturing rebounds and making crucial defensive stops. This performance was a confidence booster for the team, especially given that it was against Brissett’s former team, the Pacers.
Brissett’s impact extended beyond the court, energizing the locker room as well. Reports from The Athletic’s Jay King highlighted how veteran players like Holiday and Al Horford hyped up Brissett during his media availability, acknowledging his valuable contributions and the energy he brought to the team.
The success of the small-ball lineup featuring Brissett and Jayson Tatum at the five in Game 2 could influence the Celtics’ strategy moving forward, especially if Kornet’s injury lingers. This ability to adapt with smaller lineups provides Boston with a strategic advantage as they continue their playoff run. The Celtics’ versatility and depth were on full display, demonstrating their capacity to match up against various styles of play.
As the series shifts to Indiana, the Celtics aim to build on their momentum and secure a commanding 3-0 lead. The team’s ability to switch between small and big lineups, play at varying paces, and execute their game plan effectively instills confidence in their capability to overcome the Pacers. Holiday acknowledged the Pacers’ style of controlled chaos, praising their fast-paced play and ball movement, but affirmed the Celtics’ readiness to counter these tactics with their own diverse strategies.
With Game 3 approaching, the Celtics are prepared for the challenges ahead. This game will be crucial in their pursuit of an NBA Finals berth, and the team’s depth and adaptability, exemplified by Brissett’s impactful performance, will play a significant role in their quest for victory. Coverage for Game 3 begins at 7:30 p.m. with Celtics Pregame Live on NBC Sports Boston, leading up to the 8:30 p.m. tip-off.
The resilience and readiness demonstrated by players like Brissett provide the Celtics with a unique edge. His energy and ability to perform under pressure, even with limited minutes, highlight the depth and unity of this Celtics team. As they head into Game 3, the Celtics will look to leverage their strengths and continue their path toward the NBA Finals, driven by the collective effort and unwavering focus of each player on the roster.