NBA Roundup: Celtics Dominate Suns, Thunder Regain Top Spot

The Boston Celtics showcased an impressive offensive display led by Jaylen Brown’s 37 points, defeating the Phoenix Suns 127-112. With Jayson Tatum and Al Horford contributing 26 and 24 points respectively, the Celtics’ big three combined for 87 points, solidifying their position as contenders for the top seeding in the NBA Eastern Conference playoffs.

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In a rematch against the Suns, whom they defeated last Saturday, the Celtics displayed their prowess from beyond the arc, converting 25-of-50 three-point attempts. Conversely, the Suns struggled from long range, shooting only 11-of-31. Despite Devin Booker’s 23 points and Bradley Beal’s 22, the Suns couldn’t match the Celtics’ offensive firepower.

Coach Joe Mazzulla praised Brown’s performance, highlighting his defensive intensity and versatility on both ends of the floor. With the victory, the Celtics improved to 52-14, firmly securing their lead in the Eastern Conference standings.

Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder reclaimed the top spot in the Western Conference with a 126-119 win over the Dallas Mavericks. Despite Luka Doncic’s absence due to a hamstring injury, Kyrie Irving led the Mavericks with 36 points. However, the Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 31 points and Jalen Williams’ 27, pulled away in the second half to secure the victory.

The win propelled the Thunder to the top of the Western Conference alongside the Denver Nuggets, both with a record of 46-20. Oklahoma City’s head-to-head advantage over Denver gives them the edge in the standings.

In other games, the Milwaukee Bucks staged a fourth-quarter comeback to defeat the Philadelphia 76ers 114-105. Despite missing Joel Embiid, the Sixers led by 10 early in the third quarter before the Bucks rallied behind Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 32 points. The win extended Milwaukee coach Doc Rivers’ unbeaten record against his former clubs since joining the Bucks.

The Los Angeles Clippers closed the gap on the Nuggets and Thunder with a 126-111 road victory over the Chicago Bulls. Led by Paul George’s 28 points and Kawhi Leonard’s 27, the Clippers maintained their fourth position in the Western Conference standings.

Overall, the Celtics’ dominant performance against the Suns and the Thunder’s resurgence highlight the competitiveness of the NBA as teams jostle for playoff positions in the closing stages of the regular season.