BOSTON — The Celtics extended their winning streak to nine games on Tuesday night with a 117-99 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers at TD Garden. Despite only making five 3-pointers, the Celtics managed to secure the win.
It was a rare occurrence for the Celtics to win without relying on their 3-point shooting. They are known for their proficiency from beyond the arc, leading the NBA in 3-point attempts per game. However, on this night, they found success by dominating the paint and attacking the hoop.
Both Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum led the way for Boston, combining for over 40 points in the paint. Even though the team struggled from 3-point range, their aggressive play inside the paint propelled them to victory.
Head coach Joe Mazzulla commended the team’s ability to win in a different way and emphasized the importance of taking good shots, regardless of their location on the court. The Celtics showcased their efficiency and offensive prowess, finishing with a high true shooting percentage.
Despite their limited success from long range, Brown and Tatum spearheaded the team’s attack with impressive performances in the paint. Brown’s relentless drives to the hoop earned him 31 points, while Tatum took over in the fourth quarter with 15 points to seal the victory.
The trio of Brown, Tatum, and Kristaps Porzingis all contributed over 20 points each, showcasing the team’s depth and ability to score in various ways. Mazzulla praised Brown’s aggressive mindset and praised Tatum’s versatility on offense.
Porzingis’ presence in the post and at the free-throw line added another dimension to the Celtics’ offense, as they demonstrated their ability to win games even when their 3-point shooting is not at its best.
This win serves as a valuable lesson for the Celtics, showing that they can adapt and find success through different means on the court. As they look ahead to the playoffs, they can draw on this victory as a reminder of the importance of attacking the basket and diversifying their offensive approach.