Paul KasabianFeatured Columnist IIDecember 13, 2023
Photo By Winslow Townson/Getty Images
The Boston Celtics remained unbeatable at home and have become the NBA’s best team with a 17-5 overall record after a thrilling 120-113 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night.
Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown were a force to be reckoned with, both contributing 25 points. Tatum also showcased his all-around game by leading the team with 10 rebounds, five assists and two blocks during his 41 minutes on the court. The Celtics had all of their starters scoring in double figures and achieved a perfect 26 for 26 from the free-throw line.
Cleveland got off to a hot start, taking a 15-point lead in the first quarter, but Boston fought back and thanks to Tatum’s 13 second-quarter points, the team only trailed 60-59 at halftime.
It was a back-and-forth affair in the second half, with the Celtics ultimately pulling away. Tatum hit a crucial mid-range jumper and splashed a big-time three-pointer to secure the win.
Celtics on NBC Sports Boston @NBCSCeltics
JAYSON TATUM MAKING BIG BUCKETS 😤 pic.twitter.com/m9dc0FwBwm
His efforts overcame a great night from the Cavs backcourt of Donovan Mitchell (29 points) and Darius Garland (26 points).
Although Tatum struggled with his shot, going 7-of-19, he delivered when it mattered most and contributed in other areas, especially on the glass. It was an impressive all-around performance from the reigning four-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA First Team member, and fans and analysts took notice of his contribution.
brad auerbach @CelticsPost
jayson tatum is unbelievable even if he’s missing his 3’s but unbeatable when he’s making em
Jayson Tatum was DOMINANT in the Celtics’ win over the Cavs 💪
🍀 25 PTS
🍀 10 REB
🍀 5 AST
🍀 2 BLK pic.twitter.com/7xkIdNIMsa
Thank you, God for Jayson Tatum! 🙌🏾☘️
JAYSON TATUM pic.twitter.com/dYZLoZunPW
CLUTCH TIME JAYSON TATUM
Sam Cassell has Jayson Tatum deep in his post up bag all of a sudden. It’s a beautiful thing. @celtics
Jayson Tatum is so impressive, man. He’s grown so much
Jayson Tatum Enjoyer @CelticsFan3221
Tatum is so good
Dave: a verbose charlatan @daveusesthis
Tatum is so good in this role
With a crucial win, the Boston Celtics are now tied atop the NBA standings with the Timberwolves. Boston also holds a game-and-a-half lead over the Milwaukee Bucks and Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference.
The Celtics and Cavs will meet again on Thursday in Boston.