Boston Reaches 50 Wins With a 121-99 Victory in Portland
The Boston Celtics became the 1st team in the NBA to reach 50 wins on Monday night, as they defeated the Trail Blazers 121-99 in Portland.
The Celtic defense was on full display in ripcity, holding the Blazers under 29 points in all 4 quarters.
The difference in the game was in transition, as Boston was able to create some separation due to their success on the break, outscoring Portland 23-6 in fastbreak points. Jaylen Brown led the way for the Celtics again, as JB's hot streak since the all-star break continued. Brown finished Monday's matchup with 27 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 0 turnovers, continuing to make his case for an All-NBA nod.
Jayson Tatum struggled a little bit during this game but still managed to put up a respectable stat line. JT concluded his night with 26 points, 5 rebounds, 8 assists, and just 1 turnover.
Despite some recent shooting struggles, I love the way that Jayson has continued to make the right play. He has contributed to the offense with his passing as much as anything, dropping 23 dimes in the last 3 games.
Shoutout to Sam Hauser, who received the player of the game nod from the NBC Sports Boston crew. Hauser had it going from downtown tonight, scoring a season-high 22 points on 8/12 from the field and 6/10 from long range.
With a late-night start and 2 key starters being out against a subpar team, I was impressed by Boston's attention to detail in this game.Hot off the presses...the Celtics 50th win is a 121-99 final in Portland... pic.twitter.com/PeV79TVCWG
— Sean Grande (@SeanGrandePBP) March 12, 2024
The C's put their foot on the pedal early and often against this young Blazers team, not allowing them to gain any confidence throughout the game.
As we continue down this home stretch towards the end of the regular season, the 50-14 Boston Celtics now hold an 8.5-game lead in the Eastern Conference with 18 games left.
Boston will conclude their final West Coast road trip of the 2023-24 regular season in Utah before returning home for 3 of their next 4.
The Celtics next game will be Tuesday night in Utah. Go Celtics!
This is the seventh time that the Celtics have won 50 of their first 64 games. Four of the previous six teams went on to win the championship.
— Taylor Snow (@taylorcsnow) March 12, 2024
Last time they did it was 2007-08 🏆https://t.co/HDHo20x9E9