The Boston Celtics are approaching the end of the regular season with only 11 games left, striving to close the gap and secure the top seed in the NBA.
Amidst a challenging six-game road trip, Boston is determined to keep winning despite missing several key starters. In their recent matchup against the Chicago Bulls, only Jayson Tatum and Derrick White were in their usual starting roles.
Nevertheless, Boston maintained their momentum with a solid 124-113 victory. Role players like Sam Hauser, Payton Pritchard, Al Horford, Luke Kornet, and Xavier Tillman stepped up alongside Tatum, who led the team with 26 points.
Celtics’ head coach Joe Mazzulla praised the efforts of the bench players, emphasizing their crucial contributions in the absence of key personnel. Hauser particularly shone with 23 points, including seven three-pointers, setting a franchise record with 20 three-pointers in the last three games.
Mazzulla highlighted Hauser’s growing impact and the team’s understanding of utilizing his skills effectively. He emphasized Hauser’s ability to create spacing on the floor and cause defensive indecisions.
As the regular season winds down, Boston sees an opportunity to showcase their depth ahead of the playoffs. Despite the eventual shortening of the bench rotation, the Celtics remain focused and determined.
Al Horford echoed Mazzulla’s sentiments, emphasizing the team’s collective effort and versatility. He expressed confidence in Boston’s ability to adapt and succeed regardless of who is on the court.
Looking ahead, the Celtics aim to maintain their winning streak as they face the Atlanta Hawks on Monday night, seeking their 10th consecutive victory.
