A 2-1 lead in a high tempered rivalry, the Celtics were at stake for potentially doubling up the Wizards to claim a 3-1 lead, but John Wall had other plans to disrupt Boston’s momentum.
A 121-102 victory for Washington pulls the series even at 2-2, making the challenge for the Celtics even tougher, as the woes continue to pile up. One major factor that separated the Wizards and the Celtics throughout the course of the game was the rebounding margin. Going into this series, the past match ups against Washington has shown them rebounding efficiently, as C Marcin Gortat is a prime contributor to the Wizards attack on the glass (10.6 rebounds in the past 5 games). With Gortat attacking the glass, fellow teammate Markieff Morris contributed in all aspects of the game for Washington (16 points 10 rebounds 5 assists 3 steals). John Wall and Bradley Beal combined for 56 points, as they drove Washington to its second victory in the series.
For Boston, the issues piled up one again. Isaiah Thomas was a key player, but turnovers in this game caused Boston could not get any sort of rhythm. Thomas finished with 19 points, while the second leading scorer Terry Rozier finished Game 4 with 16 points. Celtics combined had 31 rebounds, 14 less than the Wizards, ultimately giving them the advantage for second chance opportunities. A bright spot here for Boston is point guard Terry Rozier, coming off the bench strong and delivering when it matters most. With his 16 points, Rozier finished with 7 boards in 22 minutes. The big $126 million dollar man Al Horford finished with 11 points and 5 boards, to go with 5 assists.
A 26-0 run in the third quarter was the dividing factor in a game that multiple lead changes that propelled Washington over the #1 seed Celtics. One surprising note to include is that the Wizards F Kelly Oubre Jr was suspended for this game due to the confrontation and eventual shove of Celtics F Kelly Olynyk.
Next game for Boston is Wednesday, as they travel home to host the even series against Washington.
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