CLEVELAND — The Eastern Conference Finals has become a best-of-three as the Cavaliers defended their home court again in Game Four, beating the Celtics 111-102 to even the series 2-2.
The Cavaliers got 22 points from LeBron James in the first half and led 68-53 at the break. The 68 points was the most Boston has surrendered in a first half this season.
The Celtics got within eight points in the third quarter, but Cleveland upped the intensity on defense, blocking shots and forcing turnovers that created offensive chances in transition.
Cleveland led 89-76 after three quarters and James went to the fourth with 35 points.
"I think we moved the basketball," said Tyronn Lue after the third quarter. "We're playing with more pace and more speed. That's allowed us to get into the paint, kick it out for threes."
Boston battled back in the fourth, drawing within six with 6:55 to play, but Cleveland scored five quick points to make it 100-89 at the 6:01 mark.
From that point, the Cavs withstood Boston's attempt to draw close, capitalizing on missed three-point attempts and hitting shots at the other end to seal the win.
Cox Media Group
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