During Saturday’s NBA action, the Boston Celtics emerged victorious with a 145-108 win against the Los Angeles Clippers. Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 30 points, while Jaylen Brown contributed 24. The team’s impressive 3-point shooting (47.2%) played a crucial role in their win, marking their seventh victory in eight games.
Jrue Holiday, hailing from the Los Angeles area, celebrated his homecoming with 20 points and seven assists. He highlighted the team’s strengths in open-court play, underscoring their combination of shooters and playmakers. The Celtics showed their prowess in the same arena where they are set to face the Los Angeles Lakers on Christmas Day.
“I think when we get out into the open court, we’re a pretty tough team with the type of firepower and the offensive ability we have on this team,” Holiday said. “We have shooters, we have guys who can penetrate and make plays. Once we make stops and get the rebound, we’re pushing as quickly as possible, and it’s to our benefit.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers Updates
Despite the convincing win over the Clippers, Celtics’ coach Joe Mazzulla remained measured, focusing on continuous improvement rather than calling it a statement victory. The Clippers, missing Kawhi Leonard due to injury, struggled with their defense against Boston’s offensive tactics. Paul George and James Harden led the Clippers’ scoring, but their efforts weren’t enough to counter the Celtics’ momentum.
“I do not consider it a statement win,” Mazzulla said. “I consider it a win (and) an opportunity where we played well and continue to figure out where we didn’t play well. We left a lot on the table as far as our execution and the things we want to accomplish.”
Boston established its dominance early, leading by the end of the first quarter and extending its advantage by halftime. Tatum overcame an ankle issue to contribute significantly, including a notable four-point play. The Celtics’ efficient offense and strong rebounding, with Neemias Queta grabbing 12 rebounds, were key factors in their commanding performance.
“We were tested a lot,” Clippers coach Tyronn Lue said. “They lead the league in 3-point attempts, and all of their guys can shoot them. Coming into the game, we discussed it. Even when you think they’re not going to shoot it, they’re going to shoot it.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers Updates
Meanwhile, the Clippers faced challenges without Leonard. They shot 46.1% from the field and were less effective from the 3-point range. George remains optimistic about the team’s prospects despite the recent losses.
“Hopefully we’re back healthy and see what the takeaways were from the last two games and go from there,” George said. “We’re in a great spot. We were winning up until the two losses. … It doesn’t derail us from where we’re headed and where we’re trying to get to.”
The Celtics, missing Kristaps Porzingis due to injury, are set to play the Lakers next, while the Clippers will host the Charlotte Hornets.
