The Boston Celtics secured a hard-fought 129-124 victory over the Indiana Pacers during Tuesday’s NBA action, with Jayson Tatum’s critical blocks in the final moments being a standout feature. While Boston is known for its offensive firepower, this game reminded them of their equally formidable defense.
Tatum’s 30 points were pivotal, but it was his defensive actions, including two key blocks in the last 30 seconds, that sealed the win for Boston. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla emphasized the importance of winning games through defensive efforts and not relying too heavily on offense.
“You have to be able to win games with your defense,” Mazzulla said.
Jaylen Brown and Derrick White contributed 25 and 24 points, respectively, helping Boston clinch the season series against Indiana 3-2, despite the Pacers having eliminated the Celtics in the quarterfinals of the In-Season Tournament in December.
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Aaron Nesmith led Indiana with 26 points and 12 rebounds, while Pascal Siakam added 23 points. Myles Turner scored 17 points, and All-Star Tyrese Haliburton, returning from injury, contributed 13 points and 10 rebounds.
The Celtics initially led by 20 points, but the Pacers rallied, narrowing the gap to 127-124. A crucial block by White on Nesmith’s 3-point attempt and Tatum’s block on Turner’s shot was decisive in maintaining Boston’s lead. Jrue Holiday’s two free throws extended the advantage, and a successful challenge by Boston overturned a foul call on Tatum.
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Holiday reflected on the need for the Celtics to adapt and find various ways to close out games. The Celtics’ energized start was boosted by the return of Kristaps Porzingis, who missed two games with an ankle injury.
“We’ve got to be able to fight through everything,” Holiday said. “Fight through expectations. Fight through being up 20 and somebody having a great third quarter and finishing games. If it was easy the whole time, what’s the fun in that?”
Porzingis’ inside presence and the Celtics’ effective 3-point shooting, with 17 made threes, were key factors in the game. Porzingis, along with Holiday, each scored 17 points, marking the third time this season that Boston’s starting five all scored 17 or more points.
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The Pacers’ 25-10 run in the third quarter briefly gave them the lead, but Boston regained control, entering the final quarter with a lead that they extended with a strong start in the fourth.
Looking ahead, the Pacers will face the New York Knicks, while the Celtics are set to host the Los Angeles Lakers in their next games.
