The Boston Celtics secured a hard-fought 108-96 victory over the Washington Wizards on Friday night, marking their second consecutive win and improving their NBA Cup pool play record to 2-1. Despite entering the game as heavy favorites against a struggling Wizards team that had lost nine straight games, the Celtics faced challenges early on, particularly with star players Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum struggling with their shooting.
In the first half, the Wizards managed to establish an 11-point lead as Brown and Tatum combined for a disappointing 3-of-23 from beyond the arc. However, Brown put together a strong performance overall, finishing with a game-high 31 points and 11 rebounds, effectively scoring from inside and helping keep the Celtics competitive.
While the shooting difficulties persisted, Boston’s bench played a crucial role in the victory. Sam Hauser led the bench with 13 points, while Payton Pritchard and Luke Kornet contributed significantly to the team’s efforts. Derrick White also stepped up in the fourth quarter, scoring eight points that helped the Celtics pull away.
Additionally, Boston’s defense was instrumental in the win, forcing 20 turnovers from the Wizards and converting them into 23 points. The Celtics’ record now stands at 13-3, and they will return to Boston for a Sunday matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Key takeaways from the game include the rise of Luke Kornet, who took advantage of Al Horford’s absence due to illness and displayed strong defensive skills. The Celtics had a tough shooting night overall, particularly from 3-point range, but their bench depth proved to be a valuable asset. The team’s performance keeps their hopes alive in the NBA Cup, as they navigate the challenges of tournament play.
Former Celtics player Malcolm Brogdon also made an impression against his old team, contributing 18 points and 10 rebounds for the Wizards. His performance underscores his potential trade value as the Wizards rebuild, making him a player to watch as the trade deadline approaches.
Overall, this game highlights the Celtics’ resilience and depth, offering a testament to their potential as they continue their journey in both the regular season and the NBA Cup competition. The team faces a pivotal moment ahead with their next game, where they will aim to build on their successes and enhance their point differential for a better chance of advancing in the tournament.