BOSTON (AP) — The Boston Celtics, the reigning NBA champions, successfully challenged the league’s hottest team on Tuesday night, defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 120-117. Jayson Tatum played a pivotal role in the victory, scoring 33 points and securing 12 rebounds, which not only helped the Celtics but also handed the Cavaliers their first loss after an impressive start of 15 consecutive wins this season.
The Cavaliers made a valiant effort to come back from a significant 21-point deficit, narrowing the gap to just two points in the third quarter. Donovan Mitchell, who led Cleveland with 35 points, hit a spectacular 3-pointer with 24 seconds remaining, bringing his team within four points. Tatum responded by making one of two free throws before inadvertently knocking Mitchell to the ground, requiring him to receive medical attention.
After Mitchell managed to sink both of his free throws that followed, the Celtics promptly inbounded the ball and executed a fast break, culminating in an easy dunk by Al Horford to secure the win.
Key Takeaways
The Cavaliers, who emerged as a surprising force at the top of the Eastern Conference, are now aware that overcoming the Celtics will be a tough challenge if they encounter them in the playoffs.
Key Moment
A critical turning point was when the Celtics scored 19 out of the last 26 points in the second quarter, increasing their lead from five to 17 points, ending the half at 65-48. The Cavaliers’ strong response in the third quarter, cutting a 21-point lead down to just two, kept the game exciting.
Key Stat
In the first half alone, the Celtics shot an impressive 14 for 22 from beyond the arc. They went on a scoring spree, hitting four consecutive three-pointers when they were up by five points with just over five minutes left in the quarter, ultimately extending their lead to 65-48 by halftime.
Looking Ahead
Cavaliers: Set to host the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday.
Celtics: Will visit the Washington Wizards on Friday, following their special visit to the White House to celebrate their 18th NBA championship.
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