The Boston Celtics showcased their long-range dominance Monday night, hitting 22 three-pointers en route to a commanding 126-94 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers at TD Garden.
Jayson Tatum and Payton Pritchard each scored 20 points, leading a balanced Boston offense that extended its season-best winning streak to six games.
Boston’s barrage from beyond the arc was the difference-maker, as they overcame a slow start to torch the Clippers from three-point range. The Celtics set the tone in the second quarter, where they tied an NBA record with 12 made threes in the period, stretching their lead to an insurmountable 19 points by halftime.
Porzingis Shines in Season Debut
Kristaps Porzingis made his much-anticipated season debut for the Celtics after offseason ankle surgery. Starting in place of the ailing Al Horford, Porzingis logged 16 points, six rebounds, and two blocks in 23 minutes. His defensive presence helped stabilize Boston’s interior against a Clippers squad that tallied 58 points in the paint.
With Luke Kornet (hamstring) also sidelined, Porzingis’s return couldn’t have come at a better time. His ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim will be a crucial component for Boston as they continue to gel into one of the league’s most complete teams.
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Clippers Falter Despite Zubac’s Big Night
Ivica Zubac led Los Angeles with 23 points and 10 rebounds, while James Harden added 19 points, nine assists, and eight boards. However, their efforts weren’t enough to keep pace with Boston’s three-point onslaught.
The Clippers managed to trim the lead to 14 during a 22-8 run in the third quarter, but Boston quickly responded with three consecutive threes, dashing any hopes of a comeback.
Three-Point Explosion Fuels Celtics
Boston’s success from beyond the arc was the story of the night. After a cold 4-for-17 start from three in the first quarter, the Celtics erupted in the second, hitting 10 of their first 13 attempts from deep. They finished the quarter 12-for-17, tying the NBA record for most threes in a single quarter.
Payton Pritchard’s sharp shooting was key, as he provided an offensive spark off the bench while Boston’s defense stifled LA’s perimeter attack.
Key Takeaways
Celtics: Boston’s ability to adapt defensively when Kristaps Porzingis was on the floor stood out. The Clippers, who scored 58 points in the paint, were far less effective attacking the rim with Porzingis protecting it. This defensive adjustment complements Boston’s high-octane offense and gives them another dimension heading into the heart of the season.
Clippers: Los Angeles entered the game riding a five-game win streak but struggled to contain Boston’s three-point shooting. Despite a strong showing from Ivica Zubac, the Clippers’ perimeter defense failed to close out on shooters effectively, which proved costly against one of the league’s most potent offenses.
Key Moment
Boston’s second-quarter shooting spree turned a seven-point game into a blowout. The Celtics’ hot hand from three stretched the lead to 19 points by halftime, putting the game firmly out of the Clippers’ reach.
Key Stat
Boston’s 12 threes in the second quarter tied the NBA record for most three-pointers made in a single quarter, a testament to the team’s deep shooting arsenal and unselfish ball movement.
Up Next
The Clippers (11-8) will look to bounce back as they continue their four-game road trip on Wednesday against the Washington Wizards. Meanwhile, the Celtics (14-4) hit the road to face the Chicago Bulls on Friday, aiming to extend their win streak to seven games.
With their deep shooting and the return of Kristaps Porzingis, Boston continues to establish itself as a dominant force in the Eastern Conference, while the Clippers will need to regroup to stay competitive in the West.