Celtics lose to Wizards in a matinee at the TD Garden 106-99

In a Saturday matinee at the TD Garden, the Wizards defeated the Celtics 106-99. Grabbing and holding the lead for the majority of the contest, the Celtics controlled the game from the opening tip to the end of the fourth. Despite rumors flying around all week that the New Look C’s were breaking up, the starting five we’ve come to love this season played exceptionally and more importantly were on the same page for all 48 minutes.

Victory was on the mind of Jordan Crawford as he was facing off against a team that considered him pretty expendable less than a year ago. Despite hints of the old JC- the “sure, I’ll shoot from the scorer’s table” guy- the Celtics did just about everything right in the first quarter shooting 60 percent and committing only one turnover.

Heading into the half, the Wizards showed signs of life by rattling off 30 points on 60 percent shooting and bringing the game within striking distance to close the half 51-44.

The third quarter remains a struggle for the Cs this season as the Wizards closed the gap to a one possession game 76-74. Trevor Ariza lead the way for the Wizards drilling corner threes, staying aggressive on the ball, and making the Celtics work on both sides of the ball.

With three minutes to go in the ball game, the Wizards took the lead and the Celtics went into hero mode. Lots of desperation shots, many of which were falling earlier in the game, couldn’t find their way through the net.

Despite the final result, this afternoon’s game was another good outing for Bradley and Sullinger. Sullinger’s emergence as a leader on this club has been the story of the year in Boston. From the way he handles the media, to the way he leads by example, Celtics fans should be very happy with this “kid.” Avery Bradley’s fourth quarter was outstanding. For the game AB chipped in 26 points, including a highlight hero shot with 30 seconds to go.

For the full box score click here.

The Celtics will be back in action tomorrow, Sunday December 22nd against the Indiana Pacers.

Source: Jared Wickerham/Getty Images