Late Collapse for Celtics
In a home game against the Sacramento Kings, the Boston Celtics made an unexpected late-game substitution, pulling out all their starters with 9 minutes and 24 seconds left in the fourth quarter. While they maintained a 19-point lead at one point, the Celtics completely collapsed in the final 6 minutes, scoring only 3 points while allowing the Kings to trim the deficit to just 1 point. However, De’Aaron Fox’s crucial shot attempt missed, and Keegan Murray’s follow-up shot also failed, resulting in a failed comeback attempt by the Kings as they lost 100-101, suffering their second consecutive defeat.
Tough Loss for Kings
The Kings’ back-to-back losses, including blowing a 21-point lead against the Knicks in the previous game, have allowed the Lakers to catch up in the standings. Although both teams now have identical records, the Kings hold the tiebreaker advantage due to their superior head-to-head record, keeping them in the 8th seed in the Western Conference. However, the Lakers have a chance to overtake them.
Celtics Coach Optimistic Despite Bench Struggles
Reflecting on the severe dip in performance from the bench players in the fourth quarter, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla remained optimistic, describing the situation as “fun” and “great,” highlighting the unpredictability and pressure of the game.
Key Contributors for Celtics
Despite missing Jaylen Brown and Derrick White, the Celtics managed to secure the win with Jayson Tatum scoring 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists, and Kristaps Porzingis adding 20 points and 11 rebounds. Payton Pritchard also played a significant role off the bench, contributing 21 points.
Cold Shooting Night for Celtics’ Three-Point Specialists
Known for their three-point shooting prowess, the Celtics struggled from beyond the arc in this game, shooting a dismal 12 for 44. Sam Hauser, in particular, had a rough shooting night, going 1 for 18 overall and 1 for 13 from three-point range, tying the franchise record for most attempts with only one made field goal, previously held by Tatum.
Fox and Sabonis Shine for Kings
Despite the loss, De’Aaron Fox had a stellar performance, scoring 40 points, marking his 14th career 40-point game. Domantas Sabonis contributed 16 points, 16 rebounds, and 6 assists, extending his streak of recording double-doubles to 60 consecutive games and reaching a total of 73 double-doubles for the season, surpassing Hakeem Olajuwon’s record. (55BMW)