The Boston Celtics dominated the Miami Heat in their latest matchup, securing their 35th win of the season with ease. Despite early struggles with three-point shooting, Jayson Tatum led the charge, attacking the basket and drawing fouls. Derrick White’s tough offensive rebound and layup exemplified Boston’s hustle plays.
The first quarter saw an explosive offensive performance from the Celtics, creating a 42-29 lead with contributions from Kristaps Porzingis, Jaylen Brown, Tatum, and White. Porzingis capitalized on mismatches, leading all scorers with 14 points.
Boston’s size advantage continued to trouble Miami in the second quarter, with a lineup featuring Pritchard, Holiday, Tatum, Horford, and Kornet. Holiday found success from long-range, and the Celtics maintained a 77-64 lead at halftime.
The third quarter, typically challenging for Boston, saw a different story as the Celtics consistently generated open looks and extended their lead. Unfortunately, the game’s focus shifted to Porzingis’ health after he rolled his ankle, forcing him to leave the game with 19 points.
Despite a brief offensive stall following Porzingis’ injury, the Celtics regained composure, led by Brown’s playmaking. Luke Kornet stepped up in Porzingis’ absence, contributing a personal 6-0 run. Boston entered the fourth quarter with a commanding 113-90 lead.
The Celtics continued their dominance in the final quarter, maintaining a comfortable lead as they closed out the game. Al Horford and Payton Pritchard’s three-pointers extended the lead, and the top six players were subbed out with a 30-point advantage. Tatum led with 26 points in 32 minutes, and the Celtics secured a convincing 143-113 victory.
Next, the Celtics will face the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday, January 27, at 7:00 p.m. ET.