The Boston Celtics delivered a dominant performance against the Los Angeles Clippers, securing a 126-94 victory on Monday night. The win extended their season-high win streak to six games, improving their record to 15-3.
Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 20 points, while Payton Pritchard added another 20 in a stellar outing. Kristaps Porzingis marked his return with 16 points, six rebounds, and two blocks in just 23 minutes. The big man was making his season debut after recovering from offseason ankle surgery.
The Celtics started strong from beyond the arc, hitting 22 three-pointers on 43.1% shooting. Their second quarter was particularly impressive, making 12 of 17 three-pointers and tying the NBA record for three-pointers made in a single quarter.
The Clippers struggled defensively, especially when Porzingis was on the floor, as Boston stretched their lead to 19 points by halftime.
Despite a brief third-quarter rally by Los Angeles, which cut the Celtics’ lead to 14, Boston quickly responded with three consecutive three-pointers to push the advantage back over 20.
The Clippers’ efforts were led by Ivica Zubac, who posted 23 points and 10 rebounds, while James Harden chipped in with 19 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds. However, their loss ended a five-game win streak.
Boston’s offense was clicking all night, with multiple players contributing. Derrick White scored 19 points, and Jrue Holiday added five points, six assists, and four rebounds. Payton Pritchard’s scoring burst off the bench provided a spark, while Neemias Queta added 12 points and nine rebounds.
For the Clippers, the loss highlighted ongoing struggles with their perimeter shooting, finishing with just 26.9% from three-point range. Los Angeles’ bench also struggled, contributing only 31 points compared to Boston’s 48 bench points.
The Celtics’ defense held firm, limiting the Clippers to 43.3% shooting and dominating on the glass with 47 rebounds. The Clippers, meanwhile, outrebounded Boston on the offensive end but couldn’t convert consistently, finishing with just 10 second-chance points.
