In Memphis, Tenn., the Boston Celtics made history by completing a flawless six-game road trip for the first time ever in the franchise’s history. The Celtics defeated the Memphis Grizzlies with a 117-103 win on Monday night. Jayson Tatum showcased an impressive performance with 25 points and 14 rebounds. Al Horford contributed significantly, scoring 26 points to help secure the victory.
The Celtics’ victories against teams such as Utah, Portland, Sacramento, Phoenix, San Antonio, and Memphis have surpassed their previous road win streak of five games, a record set in February 1973. This triumphant run has also allowed Boston to match a franchise record of 32 road wins, accomplished in the 1972-73 and 1974-75 seasons, closely following behind Chicago’s 33 in the 1995-96 season and Golden State’s 34 in the 2015-16 season.
Kristaps Porzingis added 19 points to Boston’s total, as the team claimed their ninth consecutive win and closed out March with a 13-1 record. Memphis’ Ja Morant scored 26 points, Santi Aldama 21, and Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed 20 points along with 15 rebounds. Despite closing the gap within seven points with three minutes left, the Grizzlies were unable to mount a comeback, experiencing their sixth loss in seven games.
The Celtics played without key players Jaylen Brown, sidelined by a right knee impingement, and Luke Kornet, who was unavailable due to illness. Notably, the game proceeded with only two officials in the last two quarters after Matt Kallio did not return for the second half.
In terms of impact, the Boston Celtics secured their position comfortably in second place in the Eastern Conference, with their winning streak solidifying this status. Meanwhile, interim coach Tuomas Iisalo of the Memphis Grizzlies is still seeking his first win after two games, as the team edges dangerously close to the play-in game with a 44-31 record.
A critical moment came when, with Memphis still within single digits, Boston pulled ahead by shooting 4 of 6 from beyond the arc at the start of the final quarter, building their largest lead midway through the fourth. Additionally, Memphis was shooting 50% from three-point range halfway through the second quarter, leading by 11 points at one point. However, the Grizzlies missed their last six three-pointers in the half, which contributed to their downfall.
Looking ahead, Boston is set to host Miami on Wednesday, while Memphis will face Golden State on Tuesday.