The Boston Celtics secured a 125-117 victory over the Toronto Raptors at TD Garden on Friday night, marking a notable turnaround after a previous loss. This win improved the Celtics’ record to 9-4 this season when coming off a defeat.
Head coach Joe Mazzulla expressed satisfaction with the team’s ability to bounce back, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a consistent mindset throughout the season. “I like it when we come in the next day, and we can’t tell whether it’s a win or a loss,” he remarked, indicating that such an attitude is essential for continuous improvement.
The Celtics were led by standout performances from Payton Pritchard, who scored 27 points along with eight assists and five rebounds, and Jaylen Brown, who contributed 25 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. Boston was dominant throughout the matchup, trailing for only 49 seconds.
Despite a season-low of 28 three-point attempts, the Celtics found success inside, shooting an impressive 55.9% on two-point attempts, and capitalizing at the free-throw line where they made 17 of 19 shots. Mazzulla noted the team’s ability to adapt their strategy against the Raptors’ defensive pressure, pivoting to a game plan that utilized speed and opened up driving lanes.
Brown rebounded after a frustrating previous game against the Nuggets where he felt he was not adequately officiated. In contrast, he was awarded 13 free-throw attempts against the Raptors, successfully converting 12 of them. He voiced the necessity of maintaining aggression and composure rather than getting bogged down by officiating.
Speaking about his recent on-court struggles, Brown revealed insights into his recovery from a serious wrist injury sustained in 2021. He expressed that advancements in modern medicine have played a crucial role in helping him regain mobility and strength in his wrist, allowing him to become more versatile in his gameplay.
The Celtics’ guard trio of Payton Pritchard, Anfernee Simons, and Derrick White also shone brightly, collectively racking up 60 points and showcasing their ability to contribute effectively. With Pritchard currently leading the NBA in assist-to-turnover ratio, his evolution from a slow start to becoming a pivotal player for the Celtics has been remarkable.
Notably, Sam Hauser was a key contributor off the bench, scoring 19 points while also delivering strong defensive efforts that led to important transition plays. His performance highlighted the underrated aspects of his game, particularly in one-on-one matchups against tough opponents.
As a light-hearted moment, former Celtic Luke Kornet was present at the game, bringing a wave of nostalgia for many players and fans alike. His presence added an emotional touch to the night, as players greeted him fondly, showcasing the camaraderie that remains strong within the team family.
Overall, Boston’s recent victory not only reflects their resilience but also displays the depth and talent of their roster. As they continue to build momentum, the Celtics are setting a positive tone for the remainder of the season.