(Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images)
The Brooklyn Nets are moving into the semifinals eliminating Boston Celtics with a 4-1 series win with James Harden’s triple-double that gave them a 123 – 109 victory against the Celtics in game 5 while Lakers face elimination. Phoenix Suns are now only one win away to knock out the defending Champions. They have lost two games back to back against the Suns.
“We have to be better, a lot to cover in the Game 6 , they really kicked us hard .
It’s literally win or go home” , said LeBron James
Whereas Celtics’ Jayson Tatum dropped 32 points while Harden’s 34 points triple-double led the Brooklyn Nets into their first Conference Semifinals since 2014.
The triple – double puts James Harden on list with Nets Legend Jason Kidd.
The 11th Brooklyn Nets player in play – off history to score a triple – double
Harden with a masterclass of 34 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists, and the first 30 point triple-double creates a history.
After the Dallas star Luka Doncic, he is the only second player with this record, in this year’s postseason.
“We have dealt with so much, it felt good to get some meaningful games in. Our group is special, especially when we lock in defensively, It’s time to lock in now”, said Harden.
“He is a passionate and willing passer and is looking to pass. And bout his energy, he comes in the gym every day in the excitement to play a passionate basketball, the energy is infectious”, said Kevin Durant praising Harden’s passes as well as his impact on the team and his persona.
The Brooklyn Nets have passed into the Eastern Conference semifinals for the 8th time and 1st since the year 2014.
The Lakers without Anthony Davis have lost 115 – 85 to the Phoenix Suns with 3-2 in the best-of-seven series. The next game to decide their elimination.