BOSTON — The reigning NBA champions managed to fend off the league’s most formidable team on Tuesday evening, securing a 120-117 win against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Jayson Tatum was instrumental in this success, scoring 33 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, which ultimately handed the Cavaliers their first defeat after an impressive 15-game winning streak to start the season.
Cleveland made a spirited comeback, narrowing a 21-point deficit to just two points during the third quarter. Donovan Mitchell, who had an outstanding performance, drained a long 3-pointer with 24 seconds remaining, reducing the deficit to four. Tatum then made one of his two free throws before fouling Mitchell hard, leaving the Cavaliers guard needing medical attention on the floor.
Despite the foul, Mitchell managed to sink both free throws after receiving treatment. However, the Celtics executed a seamless inbound play, leading to a straightforward dunk from Al Horford that sealed the game for Boston. Throughout the match, Tatum contributed significantly beyond his scoring, adding seven assists to his tally as the Celtics claimed their third consecutive victory.
For the Cavaliers, Mitchell led the scoring with 35 points, while Evan Mobley added a solid performance of 22 points and 11 rebounds. Their impressive start to the season made them the fourth team in NBA history to achieve such a feat with 15 straight wins, marking the longest winning streak in franchise history.
Key Observations: Cleveland emerged as an unexpected top contender in the Eastern Conference, but their playoff aspirations may face challenges should they encounter Boston in the postseason.
Pivotal Moment: The Celtics shifted the momentum dramatically by scoring 19 of the last 26 points in the second quarter, turning a slim five-point lead into a commanding 65-48 margin at halftime. Despite this, Cleveland made a notable effort to close the gap in the third quarter.
Significant Stat: The Celtics demonstrated their shooting prowess, going 14 for 22 from beyond the arc in the first half. Their efficiency allowed them to stretch their lead with a series of four consecutive 3-pointers, adding to a total of six in the closing minutes, thereby establishing a substantial halftime lead.
Looking ahead: The Cavaliers will face the New Orleans Pelicans at home on Wednesday, while the Celtics will travel to take on the Washington Wizards on Friday, shortly after visiting the White House to celebrate their 18th NBA championship.
