BOSTON — Jayson Tatum led the Boston Celtics to a thrilling 108-104 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night, scoring 33 points and grabbing nine rebounds. Payton Pritchard also made a significant impact in overtime, contributing six of his total 20 points during that crucial period. Additionally, Jrue Holiday scored 17 points and recorded five assists, while Derrick White added 14 points and six assists for the Celtics, who improved their record to 8-2.
For the Nets, Cam Thomas emerged as the top scorer, netting 31 points, marking his fourth game this season with over 30 points. Dennis Schroder supported him with 20 points, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win. In a critical moment during the closing seconds of regulation, Cameron Johnson was fouled by Tatum after missing an open 3-pointer. Johnson managed to recover his own miss and converted two free throws, equalizing the game at 94 with only 7.6 seconds remaining.
As the clock wound down, Tatum attempted a three-point shot that hit the front of the rim, sending the game into overtime. The Celtics were also missing key players, with Jaylen Brown sidelined for the fourth consecutive game due to a strained left hip flexor and center Luke Kornet unavailable due to a tight right hamstring.
The Nets’ coach, Jordi Fernandez, emphasized the need to engage the Celtics defensively, predicting an exciting matchup as both teams favored a fast-paced game. The Nets aimed to disrupt Boston’s rhythm by applying defensive pressure deep in the backcourt.
Following their first home loss of the season against Golden State, the Celtics were determined to push back against a Nets squad that defended the perimeter effectively. Boston’s fast-break offense proved pivotal, as they outscored the Nets 20-10 in transition. A critical moment unfolded when the Celtics, ahead 105-102, forced the Nets into a shot-clock violation. Shortly after, Pritchard was fouled and successfully made two free throws, extending Boston’s lead.
Despite their victory, the Celtics fell short of their league-leading average of 19 three-pointers made per game, finishing with 14 out of 53 attempts from beyond the arc. In contrast, the Nets managed just 10 successful three-point shots. Both teams are set for upcoming matchups, with the Nets scheduled to face the Cavaliers on Saturday, while the Celtics will take on the Bucks on Sunday.