SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Jaylen Brown and Derrick White each scored 28 points, leading the Boston Celtics to a commanding 144-119 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night. This triumph marked a strong recovery for the Celtics, who had recently suffered a disappointing overtime loss to the Golden State Warriors.
Playing without key players Jayson Tatum (ankle) and Al Horford (rest), the Celtics still managed to outshine the well-rested Kings, proving to be the more energetic team on the night. This win adds to their impressive record of six wins in their last seven games.
Boston’s coach Joe Mazzulla emphasized the importance of maintaining perspective throughout the season. “The great thing about playing 82 games is you get a chance to shake it off the next day,” he said.
Kristaps Porzingis, who missed the previous game due to a calf injury, was a significant presence for Boston, contributing 24 points, nine rebounds, and six blocked shots. The Celtics’ shooting was notably more efficient compared to their previous game, making 22 of 42 3-point attempts, a stark contrast to their 41 misses from long range against the Warriors.
De’Aaron Fox led the Kings with 29 points on his 26th birthday, although it wasn’t enough to extend their three-game winning streak.
The game began with both teams showcasing remarkable shooting from beyond the arc. The Kings and Celtics combined for 19 3-pointers in the first quarter, tying an NBA record for the most combined 3s in a quarter. Sacramento initially led 41-38 after the high-scoring first quarter.
However, as the Kings’ 3-point shooting cooled off, the Celtics capitalized and steadily built their lead. Their six additional 3-pointers in the second quarter tied the NBA record for most combined 3s in a half.
Boston’s defense adjusted effectively in the latter half of the game, with White noting the team’s effort to be present on the catch. The Celtics’ offensive momentum continued into the third quarter, with White and Jrue Holiday hitting consecutive 3s, complemented by Porzingis’ defensive presence.
Brown’s highlight dunk over Trey Lyles late in the third quarter extended Boston’s lead to 28 points. From there, the Celtics comfortably maintained their advantage, securing their fifth consecutive victory over the Kings.
Kings coach Mike Brown acknowledged the challenge faced by his team, saying, “That was a good old fashion butt kicking.”
UP NEXT
The Celtics will face the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday, while the Kings will host the Phoenix Suns on Friday night. This game showcased the Celtics’ depth and ability to bounce back from adversity, as well as their impressive shooting and defensive adjustments against a challenging Kings side.
