Miami Heat forward Caleb Martin, behind center, fouls Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum, front center, in front of Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) in the second half of Game 1 of an NBA basketball first-round playoff series, Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Boston. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

In a resounding 114-94 triumph over the Miami Heat in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series, Boston Celtics’ standout Jayson Tatum emerged as a multifaceted catalyst, exhibiting both strategic acumen and unwavering resilience.

Navigating adeptly through Miami’s defensive onslaught, Tatum orchestrated his inaugural playoff triple-double performance with 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, demonstrating a blend of finesse and selflessness. However, his impact transcended statistical prowess, as he showcased fortitude by swiftly rising from the floor following a forceful collision with Heat wing Caleb Martin while vying for a rebound. This display of toughness not only reassured the TD Garden faithful but also emboldened the Celtics, signaling their refusal to be intimidated by the physicality of their opponents.

In the aftermath of the collision, both Tatum and Martin downplayed any malicious intent, attributing the incident to the inherent intensity of playoff basketball. Despite the heated exchange that ensued, involving technical fouls for both Jaylen Brown and Martin, the Celtics viewed the altercation as a potential catalyst for cohesion moving forward.

Amidst the fervor, Boston’s approach remained unyielding, characterized by a relentless pursuit of dominance from the outset. Bolstered by a collective determination to assert their presence early in the series, the Celtics orchestrated a commanding 14-0 lead, setting the tone for the remainder of the contest.

As the game progressed, Boston’s offensive prowess was on full display, particularly from beyond the arc, where they outpaced the Heat with a barrage of 3-pointers. Tatum’s strategic facilitation, coupled with exemplary long-range shooting from Kristaps Porzingis, Derrick White, and Sam Hauser, propelled the Celtics to a commanding lead, leaving Miami scrambling to mount a comeback.

In a series replete with historical significance and playoff implications, the Celtics’ emphatic Game 1 victory underscores their resolve to avenge past defeats and assert their supremacy in the postseason arena. With the stage set for further battles, both teams brace themselves for the arduous journey ahead, aware that each contest serves as a pivotal chapter in their quest for postseason glory.