Jrue Holiday saved the Bucks in Game 5 with 2 unbelievable clutch defensive plays on Marcus Smart

Entering the Bucks and Celtics’ pivotal Game 5 matchup, most wouldn’t have blamed you if you rode with Boston.

After the Celtics (-4.5 favorites entering Wednesday evening) stormed back to tie the series in Milwaukee, it seemed like the defending champs were out of gas. Without Khris Middleton, the Bucks seemed destined to sink.

But these are the playoffs. Never underestimate the heart of a champion.

The Bucks came to the TD Garden on a mission, pounding the Celtics from wire to wire. They even led by as many as 14 points in the fourth quarter. But Milwaukee needed a defensive hero when the Celtics made an inevitable run. Boston was in a position to win the game in the final moments, and someone had to make a play.

As Marcus Smart drove to the basket with the Celtics down, Jrue Holiday  saved the day.

Ah, but it wasn’t over. Now, the Celtics would get another chance to tie the game, and still with plenty of time. Perhaps Smart — ironically the Defensive Player of the Year with all things considered — could redeem himself?

Holiday said NO.

Imagine so casually stealing the ball at half court, on the same player, with the game on the line. You shouldn’t imagine it because only guys like Holiday are capable of such defensive wizardry.

Here’s another angle of the steal after the fact:

Indeed, it is art.

Do you know what else art is? A 110-107 win and 3-2 series lead for the Bucks as they go back to Milwaukee.

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