BOSTON — The Boston Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum’s 27 points and Jaylen Brown’s 22, continued their dominance at home by defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 116-107 on Thursday night. This victory marks their 12th consecutive home win, maintaining their unbeaten streak at the TD Garden.
The Celtics, facing the Cavaliers for the second time in a row, emerged victorious yet again, reflecting their strong form that has seen them win six of their last seven games. Kristaps Porzingis contributed 18 points, while Jrue Holiday and Derrick White added 15 and 14 points respectively. Tatum, apart from his scoring prowess, grabbed 11 rebounds, and all five starters for Boston scored in double figures.
“We were locked in, attention to detail,” said Holiday, emphasizing the team’s focused approach throughout the game. The Celtics demonstrated their control, responding effectively to the Cavaliers’ attempts to rally.
Donovan Mitchell led the charge for Cleveland with 31 points, followed by Caris LeVert with 26 and Darius Garland with 19. However, their efforts were not enough to prevent the Cavaliers from suffering their third consecutive loss.
Boston, after seeing their lead cut to three at the end of the third quarter, regained their momentum in the final quarter. Tatum’s impressive fadeaway and step-back three-pointer extended the Celtics’ lead, demonstrating their ability to respond under pressure.
The Cavaliers, despite their efforts to close the gap, were unable to overcome Boston’s resilience. A key moment came with just over three minutes remaining when Holiday’s layup and Tatum’s dunk following a Cleveland turnover effectively sealed the game for the Celtics.
Brown acknowledged the need for the Celtics to improve, noting, “We’ve got to do a better job of putting teams away,” a sentiment reflecting the team’s aspiration to not just win, but dominate.
The Cavaliers showed glimpses of a comeback, particularly in the third quarter when Garland’s energetic play brought them within striking distance. However, they struggled to maintain consistency, as evidenced by their lackluster first half, where they trailed 65-54 at the break.
Boston’s coach Joe Mazzulla praised the team’s growth and ability to stay focused, which was evident in their improved start compared to the previous game against the Cavaliers.
Mitchell’s 21 first-half points were a highlight for Cleveland, but the team’s overall shooting, particularly from the three-point line, left much to be desired.
Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff lamented the team’s lack of aggression and early settling for shots, areas they improved upon later in the game but not enough to alter the outcome.
The Celtics were also efficient from the free-throw line, making 17 of 20 attempts, continuing their strong performance from the foul line.
Looking ahead, the Cavaliers will host the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night, hoping to snap their losing streak. The Celtics, maintaining their position at the top of the Eastern Conference, will face the Orlando Magic on Friday, the first of back-to-back games at the TD Garden against Orlando.
