NBA Roundup: Celtics Extend Streak, Lakers Overcome 76ers
The Boston Celtics continued their dominant form, securing their eighth consecutive victory by defeating the injury-plagued Detroit Pistons 129-102. Jaylen Brown led the charge with an impressive 33-point performance, stepping up in the absence of key teammates Jayson Tatum, Al Horford, and Jrue Holiday. Despite Brown’s zero assists, Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla praised his all-around contribution and aggressive play.
Alongside Brown, Payton Pritchard contributed 20 points, while Derrick White and Kristaps Porzingis added 19 each, propelling the Celtics to their league-best record of 56-14. Despite missing several key players, the Celtics’ depth proved too much for the Pistons, who were without Jalen Duren due to back spasms. James Wiseman impressed for the Pistons with 24 points, but it wasn’t enough to stop the Celtics’ relentless march.
In other NBA action, the Oklahoma City Thunder reclaimed the Western Conference lead with a commanding 123-103 victory over the Toronto Raptors. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 23 points, complemented by rookie Chet Holmgren’s double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers secured a hard-fought 101-94 win against the Philadelphia 76ers, with Anthony Davis and LeBron James leading the charge. Despite committing 21 turnovers, the Lakers relied on their defensive prowess in the second half to seal the victory. D’Angelo Russell made history for the Lakers, setting a franchise record for most three-pointers in a season.
Elsewhere, the Indiana Pacers stunned the Golden State Warriors 123-111 behind Tyrese Haliburton’s 26-point, 11-assist performance, while Pascal Siakam added 25 points and 16 rebounds. Despite Stephen Curry’s efforts, the Warriors faltered in the third quarter, unable to recover from a barrage of Pacers’ attacks.
In a closely contested matchup, the Memphis Grizzlies edged past the San Antonio Spurs 99-97, courtesy of Jaren Jackson Jr.’s game-winning shot. Despite Victor Wembanyama’s impressive 31-point, 16-rebound performance for the Spurs, it wasn’t enough to prevent defeat.
As the NBA season progresses, teams continue to jostle for playoff positioning, with each game becoming increasingly crucial in determining postseason berths. Stay tuned for more thrilling NBA action as the season unfolds.