In the absence of key players like Jayson Tatum, Al Horford, and Jrue Holiday, Jaylen Brown stepped up for the Celtics, making 13 of 19 field goals. Brown, who has consistently scored over 30 points in six games post All-Star break, acknowledged the team’s depleted lineup but focused on staying aggressive and involving his teammates, despite not registering any assists.
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla commended Brown’s well-rounded play and emphasized his contribution to the team’s success. Payton Pritchard, Derrick White, and Kristaps Porzingis also contributed significantly to Boston’s victory, extending their league-best record to 56-14.
Facing the Detroit Pistons, who were missing several players, including their leading scorer, Cade Cunningham, the Celtics maintained their dominance. Even with James Wiseman starting for the Pistons and scoring 24 points, Detroit couldn’t match Boston’s performance. Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder reclaimed the Western Conference lead by defeating the Raptors, with notable performances from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren.
In another game, the Los Angeles Lakers secured a win against the Philadelphia 76ers, with Anthony Davis and LeBron James leading the charge. D’Angelo Russell made Lakers history by surpassing Nick Van Exel’s record for most three-pointers in a season. Meanwhile, the Indiana Pacers defeated the Golden State Warriors behind Tyrese Haliburton’s stellar display, supported by Pascal Siakam. Despite Stephen Curry’s efforts for the Warriors, they couldn’t recover from a poor third quarter.
Lastly, in a tight matchup, the Memphis Grizzlies edged past the San Antonio Spurs, with Jaren Jackson Jr. sealing the win with a late jump shot, despite Victor Wembanyama’s impressive performance for the Spurs.
