Host Celtics hold off Bucks 113-107 for OT win

BOSTON — Celtics coach Brad Stevens loves the postseason because it offers a chance to “bust narratives.”

The Celtics took their first step toward shattering the belief they can’t win without their biggest stars.

Al Horford had 24 points and 12 rebounds as Boston overcame Khris Middleton’s long 3 that beat the fourthquarter buzzer, topping the Milwaukee Bucks 113-107 in overtime Sunday to open the playoffs.

The Celtics led 99-96 with 0.5 seconds left in regulation when Middleton took an inbounds pass on the far right wing and hit a contested 35-footer. Boston outscored Milwaukee 14-8 in the extra period.

Terry Rozier added 23 points, four rebounds and three assists for Boston in his first career playoff start. Jaylen Brown finished with 20 points. Rookie Jayson Tatum added 19 points and 10 rebounds.

Rozier said he knows he’s under a spotlight this postseason with Kyrie Irving out for the season following his recent knee surgery. “I just know I gotta step up,” he said. “I know I gotta fill big shoes. I don’t feel no pressure. I’m glad to be in this position.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 35 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists before fouling out in overtime. Middleton had 31 points, eight rebounds and six assists. Malcolm Brogdon scored all 16 of his points after halftime.

Paul George scored 36 points and set a Thunder franchise playoff record with eight 3-pointers.

Russell Westbrook had 29 points, 13 rebounds and eight assists and Carmelo Anthony added 15 points.

Rookie Donovan Mitchell had 27 points and 10 boards for the visiting Jazz.

James Harden scored 44 points and powered a big fourth-quarter run that allowed the host Rockets to take Game 1. Top-seeded Houston had its hands full with No. 8 Minnesota on a night where the Rockets made just 10 of 37 3-pointers. Harden made 7 of 12 3-pointers, but Trevor Ariza, P.J. Tucker, Eric Gordon and Chris Paul combined to go 3-of-22.