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[Boston Celtics]

The Jordan Walsh breakout has been beautiful

The first two seasons of Jordan Walsh’s career were relatively forgettable from a, individual standpoint (at least he got a ring his rookie year).

In the 61 games he appeared in, Walsh averaged 1.6 points and 1.5 rebounds while only playing 8 minutes per game. He shot 37% from the field and 27% on threes.

There was never a point it looked like Walsh could be a regular rotation player, not during his regular season action, preseason action or even Summer League action. You would be hard pressed to find people who still believed in Walsh and it would have been even harder to find someone who had a good reason to still believe — not just blind faith.

Over the first five games of this season, that seemed to remain the case as Walsh played just 5 minutes and 18 seconds, appearing in just three games.

But sometimes, blind faith pays off.

After a good showing in the Celtics loss in Philadelphia on November 11th, Joe Mazzulla inserted Walsh into the starting lineup as he looked for someone to play the 4 with Payton Pritchard, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown and Neemias Queta.

Ever since that point, Walsh has taken 0ff like a rocket ship and it has broken my brain.

Since being inserted into the starting 5 on November 12th against the Grizzlies, Walsh has averaged 9.8 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game. The Celtics, meanwhile, are tied for 2nd in the NBA at 10 wins, have the 3rd best net rating in the NBA at +10.2 points per 100 possessions, and have the best offense in the NBA, scoring 126.8 points per 100 possessions.

It is his three-point shooting that has made me the most excited. He is 19/39 from three on the season, 49%. That won’t hold up — not even the best shooters in NBA history shoot 50% from three — but if he can be in the high 30’s or even the low 40’s.

He is scoring at a really high level now. In the Celtics November 30th win over the Cavaliers, Walsh scored a career-high 14 points and in the five games since that one, he has beaten that three times. Over the last six games, he is averaging 15 points per game, shooting 77% with an effective field goal percentage of 89%.

He also creates a lot of 2nd chance points for the Celtics as well. He has 37 offensive rebounds this season which is tied for third on the team with Josh Minott behind Luka Garza and Neemias Queta.

Those extra possessions are something the Joe Mazzulla talks a lot about and something that the Celtics need because they do have a tendency to give up offensive rebounds on the other end, even if they have improved in that regard since the start of the season.

His defense was what everyone talked about when he was drafted in 2023 and that has not gone away during this stretch.

Each night he takes the top assignment of the other team, allowing Jaylen Brown and Derrick White to focus more on offense. Walsh is giving up 39% to shooters when he is the nearest defender and how he navigates screens is also a joy.

According to Cleaning the Glass, Walsh is in the 94th percentile in blocks for wings, 91st percentile in steals and the 98th percentile in offensive rebounding. He is doing all the little things for this Celtics team, creating extra possessions for Boston on both sides of the court.

This leap from Jordan Walsh seems to be real. I just cannot understand how the player I have watched the past two seasons and the past three summers is now one of the most impactful and important players on the team.

It has been so beautiful to watch.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/article...arkansas-razorbacks-joe-mazzulla-brad-stevens

 

[Boston Celtics]

Connectivity: The Recipe for Maine Celtics becoming Boston Celtics

Coming into the season, if you told someone that Sam Hauser would be a fixture in the rotation, looked at to shoot 40% or better from three for the fifth season in a row while also providing underrated defense, they likely wouldn’t have been surprised.

If you told someone that Neemias Queta would become an advanced-metrics darling, flirt with near double-double averages and exceed most expectations in his first season as a starter, you’d likely be met with a fair amount of skepticism.

But I know for sure if you told someone that Jordan Walsh would start the season with three DNP-CDs, logging just five minutes and 18 seconds across the first six games, only to later start thirteen straight contests emerging as one of the league’s best defenders while shooting 49% from three, they would run away trying to preserve whatever sanity they still had.

Besides the fact that they all are very tall, one important common denominator here is that they all spent substantial time in the G-League. That gritty, often overlooked proving ground helped Hauser, Queta, and Walsh go from hopefuls to bona fide NBA contributors, proving that sometimes the real magic happens where the lights are dimmest.

Furthermore, last year’s 30th overall pick, Baylor Scheierman, played 25 games with Maine during the 2024–25 campaign. Like many rookies, he started slowly, but those reps proved invaluable fueling the confidence he flashed late last season and has carried into this one. Scheierman has appeared in 21 of the team’s first 25 games this year, knocking down 47 percent of his three-point attempts.

Fast forward to this year, Maine is home base for all three of Boston’s two-way players. Ron Harper Jr, Amari Williams, and Max Shulga headline a roster that has flipped its season on its head, winning nine of its last ten games after an 0–3 start.

Williams, the rookie big out of Kentucky, has already shown flashes in meaningful NBA minutes against quality opponents, and much of that readiness can be traced to the growing connectivity between the Celtics and their G-League affiliate. A pipeline designed to help past, present, and future Maine standouts evolve into rotation players.

That alignment starts with culture, as coaches throughout the organization, led by the head coaches, emphasize a shared vision of accountability, professionalism, and impact on and off the floor.

“It doesn’t matter whether they’re in Boston or Maine; the standard is the standard,” said first-year head coach Phil Pressey. While Williams noted that Pressey and Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla are “pretty different” personality-wise, there are clear similarities in the messages they emphasize and the habits they reinforce.

Off the court, it’s all about being a professional. When asked about Walsh last year, Joe Mazzulla said, “What you do in the G-League from a statistical standpoint is important, but it’s more about your daily approach and professionalism.” Just five days ago when Williams posted his first career triple double in the G, coach Pressey told reporters that “he’s a big point guard,” but then reiterated being a pro. “But for him it’s just about building these professional habits of off the court taking care of your body, eating the right things, going to sleep at the right time…those are professional habits that an NBA player has.”

Mazzulla is well known for using movie scenes from “The Town” and other films/sports to drill points related to his coaching. It was also reported that Pressey spoke about using a quote from “Kung Fu Panda” to help his team after an 0-3 start.

“The Town,” “The Dark Knight,” and…. “Kung Fu Panda” ???

Maine Celtics head coach Phil Pressey mentioned how he’s taking a page out of Joe Mazzulla’s book and connecting to his players via movies.

My story on the Master Oogway quote he mentioned and his transition to Maine pic.twitter.com/ucTYWB7FSu

— Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) November 14, 2025

Hearing the same things from both coaches and everyone else in both settings most likely played a role in why Williams felt prepared for his first real NBA minutes. Afterwards, he said, “I felt like everyone around me the coaches, my teammates always kept me ready for that moment.”

We also have heard Mazzulla say winning is everything so many times and Pressey shares that same sentiment saying after a win that “I just try to voice that winning is everything.”

On the court, Maine’s offensive playcalling is very similar to Boston’s. I was in attendance for both of Maine’s matchups with the Capital City GoGo (Wizards affiliate) which they split without Harper Jr and Williams. In the first matchup, I was fortunate enough to sit close enough to hear coach Pressey during the game and in timeouts.

When the offense is freelancing, Pressey routinely calls out “Angle” signaling Angle Pick and Roll, which Boston also runs a ton. He’s always coaching within the play making sure players not directly involved in the PnR have the correct spacing. But on the plays they do set, you can clearly see the similarities.

Here both teams run “Chest” which is when someone sets an on-ball screen, then receives a Flare screen. The on-ball screen can either be a regular screen or a Ghost screen. Hayden Gray is able to get a step back three, and Boston plays great basketball after creating an advantage. You can even see Mazzulla saying Chest at the beginning of the second clip.

On this one both teams run Spain Pick and Roll (back screen for on-ball screeners man) and get open corner threes.

Another similarity beyond just running the same action is that both squads have an elite scorer in their respective league. Jaylen Brown is sixth in the NBA in scoring averaging 29 points while Ron Harper Jr leads the G-League in scoring at 26.9. Having these guys allow them to run Killer Whale Pick and Roll where they target a weak defender. Both guys are able to reject the screen and create offense for themselves.

Lastly, both teams love to have their centers play as Handoff passers. They go to “Zoom” or “Chicago” action (either one works) which is when a player receives a pin down or off ball screen to get a handoff. Derrick White and Harper Jr start in the corner and get the handoff after a teammate sets the pin down for them. This gets them going downhill.

None of this is accidental. From Hauser’s consistency, to Queta’s emergence, to Walsh’s unlikely rise, and now to the steady pipeline flowing through Maine, the Celtics have built a development system rooted in alignment, accountability, and opportunity. And as long as the standard remains the standard, the next unexpected contributor is probably already earning minutes in Maine.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/article...ipe-for-maine-celtics-becoming-boston-celtics

 

[Boston Celtics]

Pistons down Celtics, 112-105

After three days off, the Boston Celtics returned to the court hosting the Detroit Pistons. Boston hadn’t played at home since the Los Angeles Lakers visited TD Garden on December 5th. In an evenly matched game, both teams traded leads all night, however Boston let Detroit creep away with it late, the Pistons securing a big road win, 112-105.

Payton Pritchard was listed as questionable prior to tip-off with neck spasms, but he started alongside Jaylen Brown, Neemias Queta, Derrick White, and Jordan Walsh. The Eastern Conference-leading Pistons started Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren, Duncan Robinson, and Cade Cunningham.

Detroit came out strong to start the game with an early 7-3 lead in the contest before Payton Pritchard hit on three straight buckets (8 points) to get the Celtics going. Cunningham and Duren were combining well for the road team, but it was Boston whose shooting came out that was the early story, with three straight three-pointers to take an early 14-12 lead.

Jordan Walsh picked up two early fouls for Boston, and Hugo Gonzalez came into the game, picking up the tough Cade Cunningham defensive assignment. Cunningham immediately shot over the Boston rookie, hitting his second triple of the game. On the next possession, Cade drove the length of the court, feeding Harris for a layup and forcing Joe Mazzulla to call a timeout.

Anfernee Simons was subbed into the game and hit his first shot of the game, a tough floater side step with the shot clock winding down. Jaylen Brown drove through Cade Cunningham’s chest to convert on a three-point play. Brown was starting to cook, firstly finding space for a layup over Isaiah Stewart and a tough turnaround jumper at the nail over ‘Beef Stew.’ Boston’s 9 straight points gave them the lead back at 25-19.

Boston switched to a 2-1-2 zone midway through the quarter, and it stymied the Pistons’ offensive sets. Gonzalez missed his first corner triple but redeemed himself with another opportunity and converted on his first three points to give Boston the 28-19 lead, with Jaylen Brown actively lodging his third assist of the night. Baylor Scheierman saw late quarter minutes as Boston had a great quarter going into the break up, 33-25.

Jordan Walsh returned to start the second quarter and immediately stole the ball from Cunningham and went down the other end, converting on the three-point play. Sam Hauser tweaked his left ankle early in the second quarter as he came down on Neemias Queta’s foot on a rebound attempt. Sam went back to the locker room with the trainers.

Boston went small with Queta on the bench as the Pistons’ second unit hustled and scrapped to keep the road team in the game. Cunningham hit a step-back three-pointer over Minott as the Pistons got it back to within 2 points. A Jaden Ivey layup tied things at 41 apiece with seven minutes remaining in the half.

Cunningham had 13 points and 7 assists for Detroit in the first half, Jaylen Brown had 18 points and 5 assists, and Pritchard chipped in 12 points for the home team as fans of both teams witnessed an evenly contested first half. It remained close at the half with 10 lead changes through 24 minutes, Boston up by 4 at the half, 57-53.

The second half started at a frantic pace, with both teams running the floor and taking shots early in the shot clock. Derrick White converted on his first two shots in the second half, and Queta and Duren continued to physically battle on the interior.

Neemias Queta was trailing the offensive play at the 8-minute mark and dribbled past Duren to sky for a loud two-handed dunk as the home crowd went crazy, Boston up 66-58.

Cade Cunningham was shooting with confidence in the third; he hit on his fifth triple of the night as Boston’s lead once again evaporated. Isaiah Stewart and Jaylen Brown got tangled in a physical altercation on a free throw rebound; the Detroit power forward clipped Brown’s throat with his forearm, and Brown responded with a two-arm push. The replay was reviewed, and both players would be called for a technical foul at the 5-minute mark of the third.

Caris LeVert and Derrick White traded buckets as both teams took turns in the lead. Detroit was getting frustrated with the second-half whistles, as both teams were in the bonus with 3:45 to go in the half. Walsh picked up his fourth foul on a suspect foul call with Cunningham driving to the basket. Walsh had only played 8 and a half minutes in the game at that point.

Boston’s hot shooting first quarter had well and truly dried up, as the Celtics went just 1-18 from three in a second and third quarter stretch. Boston had no choice but to attack the paint, and Brown and Simons hit on consecutive paint attempts. The Pistons outscored Boston in the third to take an 85-81 lead into the fourth.

Detroit kept the pressure on Boston to start the fourth as they outscored the home team 8-4 to start the quarter. Simons scored on a driving layup past Ausar Thompson, and the Celtics got out in transition following a Duncan Robinson three-pointer attempt as Derrick White nailed a running pull-up triple with the Pistons retreating.

White drove from the 45 as Cunningham picked up his fifth foul, and the Celtics guard converted on a three-point play, trailing 93-96. With Cunningham forced to the bench in foul trouble, Caris LaVert and Javonte Green hit big back-to-back shots to extend the Pistons lead.

Jaylen Brown finally hit his first three of the game with four minutes to go in the game. Brown swatted away LaVert but was initially whistled for the foul before the Celtics were successful on a crucial coaching challenge. Derrick White’s huge three-pointer with 3 minutes to go cut the Detroit lead to just 4 as the TD Garden crowd came alive once more. White’s fade away jumper cut it back to 2 points with the game up for grabs.

Derrick White scored a season-high 31 points on the night however the Celtics couldn’t convert down the stretch, Jaylen Brown missed a pair of free throws and Pritchard air balled a wide open three-pointer. Brown had 34 points on the night, White 31 and Pritchard 12 points. Boston next play the Miami Heat at home on Friday 19th of December.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/celtics-scores-results/126969/pistons-down-celtics-112-105

 

[Boston Celtics]

Jaylen Brown’s postgame press conference after Celtics loss showed 1 thing

BOSTON — Jaylen Brown led the Celtics in scoring (34 points), rebounds (8), assists (7), and blocks (3) in Monday night’s 112-105 loss to the Detroit Pistons.

But, at the postgame podium, he made one thing clear: he wasn’t happy with his performance.

“I got to be better,” Brown said. “I wasn’t good enough for my team.”

It’s been a career year for Brown, who is averaging 29.3 points on 50% shooting, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.9 assists. He’s eclipsed 30 points in 8 of his last 9 games; the only other game being a 19-point, 12-assist, 11-rebound triple-double in a win against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

And, he’s well on his way to a fifth All-Star appearance.

But Brown made a slew of mistakes in the fourth quarter of Monday’s loss; with four minutes left, he misfired on a pass that was picked off by Cade Cunningham. About 90 seconds later, he bit on a Tobias Harris pumpfake, sending the Pistons veteran to the line.

On the next possession, he missed both of his free throw attempts (and ultimately finished the game a season-worst 7-14 from the line).

Those are some of the plays Brown recalled when asked why he was so hard on himself at the podium.

“Especially in the fourth quarter, just some mindset plays, foul, staying down on the shot fake, a turnover in the fourth, and just too many missed free throws,” he said. “Just mentality-wise, mindset-wise, I needed to be more for my team — and I wasn’t tonight.“

To be fair to Brown, amid the mistakes were plenty of good moments, even during the final period that he lamented most. He scored 7 points and tallied 2 blocks in 9 fourth-quarter minutes, and sank a pull-up three from the top of the key midway through the period.

But the level of perfection that Brown is striving toward is exactly why the Celtics have overachieved this season, in the first place. Their top player is demanding excellence — and simply another gaudy statline was insufficient.

“I’ve got to do better to get my team over the hump,” Brown said. “In my mind, I didn’t have my best game tonight, so that’s on me.”

Derrick White, who tallied a season-high 31 points on 10-18 shooting against Detroit, disagreed with the notion that the loss was on Brown. But, he also acknowledged that the high standard he holds himself to has gotten him to where he is.

“I think that’s kind of what makes him special — 30-something [points] and still wants to do better for us, and so that’s what makes him special,” White said. “He’s probably his toughest critic, and we know that he’s going to bounce back and continue to do special things for us. And so obviously, this loss isn’t on him, it’s on all of us, and we got his back, but I think that’s just kind of the guy he is, and that’s why we love playing [with him].“

Joe Mazzulla also felt that Brown processed the game well.

“I think at the end of the day, you just have to make the right read, which I thought he did,” said the Celtics head coach. “He finished at the rim and kicked out for open shots. I think that’s just the nature of it — nothing else is more important than that, regardless of whether they’re going in or not, are we making the right read?”

But in a 7-point loss, everything mattered: “All that stuff adds up — turnover, free throws, open shots, all of that little stuff adds up,” Brown said. “So tonight wasn’t my best night at that. I’ll take accountability.”

“I think my team did enough. I gotta be better down the stretch. We gotta be better down the stretch. Definitely a game that got away from us, that got away from me. We’ll watch the film and be ready for the next one.”

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/articles/127006/jaylen-brown-celtics-pistons-press-conference

 

[Boston Celtics]

Boston Celtics Daily Links 12/16/25

Herald ‘I’ve got to be better’: Why Jaylen Brown blamed himself after Celtics’ loss to Pistons

Late miscues derail big game from Celtics stars in loss to Pistons

Globe Cade Cunningham explained why he ‘loves’ competing against the Celtics

Jaylen Brown on heated exchange, physicality against the Pistons

Celtics go cold again, fall to Cade Cunningham and top-seed Pistons: 7 takeaways

Cade Cunningham has 32 points and 10 rebounds as Pistons beat Celtics 112-105

The Pistons showed the blueprint for beating the Celtics. What’s worse? Boston’s roster may not be up to the task.

Celtics raise awareness for National Marrow Donor Program registry, and help former trainer Ed Lacerte

‘Got away from us’: Matched against the best-in-the-East Pistons, Celtics’ shooting goes cold

Celtics Green Comments from the Other Side – Pistons 12/15/25

CelticsBlog 10 Takeaways from the Celtics hard fought loss to the Pistons

Open trade season means open mailbag time

Jaylen Brown’s postgame press conference after Celtics loss showed 1 thing

The Limits of Mazzulla Small Ball

Celtics relished the “fun” of a physically-taxing Pistons battle: “I’m all for it.”

Pistons down Celtics, 112-105

Celtics injury update: Forward leaves game vs Pistons with injury

Celtics .com Photos: Pistons vs. Celtics – Dec. 15, 2025

Keys to the Game: Pistons 112, Celtics 105

NBC Sports Boston What more can Jaylen Brown do? C’s star needs help from supporting cast

Celtics-Pistons recap: C’s 3-point woes continue in tough loss

NESN Jaylen Brown’s Accountability After Pistons Game Contrasts With Donovan Mitchell

Latest Payton Pritchard Trade Idea Doesn’t Make Sense For Celtics

Celtics’ Joe Mazzulla Addresses Concerns Over Second-Half Struggles

Cade Cunningham Speaks On Securing Win Over Celtics

Celtics’ Derrick White Gets Real On Guarding Cade Cunningham

Jaylen Brown Shoulders Blame After Celtics Fall To Pistons

Celtics’ Derrick White Has Funny Response To Impressive Shooting Streak

Mass Live Former Celtics center is trade candidate with new team (report)

Joe Mazzulla reveals why new Celtics starter sat late in Pistons loss

Pistons give Brad Stevens crucial reminder as trade season begins for Celtics

Cade Cunningham says Pistons love facing Celtics: ‘Championship identity’

Jaylen Brown reveals unexpected reaction to big night in Pistons loss

Derrick White is the Celtics ‘Name to Know’ Player of the Game in Monday’s loss to Pistons

4 takeaways as Celtics lose to Pistons after brutal shooting night

Celtics Wire Celtics forward Jordan Walsh has the tools to be an elite 3-and-D player

Celtics deserve to add a player at the 2026 NBA trade deadline

Javonte Green saw Joe Mazzulla’s future as an NBA head coach as a Boston Celtic

Joe Mazzulla on what went wrong for Boston Celtics in Detroit Pistons loss

Jaylen Brown led the way for the Celtics on Monday, but he didn’t think he did enough

Derrick White points to Cade Cunningham, late errors in Celtics loss to Pistons

Celtics jersey history No. 45 – Gerald Wallace (2013-15)

Celtics history: Walker triple-double; Newlin 52 vs. Cs; Swain born

The Celtics struggled from deep and dropped a winnable game vs. the Pistons

Giannis, Jonathan Kuminga and following the money: Welcome to trade season

Goodbye, Vegas? What to know about the future of the NBA Cup

Jaylen Brown takes blame for Celtics’ home loss to East-leading Pistons

Boston Sports Journal Karalis: Detroit is good, but Boston bumbled away too many chances to beat the Pistons

BSJ Game Report: Pistons 112, Celtics 105 – C’s too sloppy to complete Derrick White-fueled comeback

Hardwood Houdini NBA’s newest toy may have just exposed Celtics’ kryptonite

Hugo Gonzalez got reminder from Celtics teammate after ugly moment

Celtics happily paying steep draft price for this season’s success

Celtics doomed for harsh realization if latest trend continues

Celtics dealing with painful reminder that requires trade action

Celtics got brutal reality check that Pistons were happy to deliver

Celtics learn tough lesson of failed magic in Pistons rematch

Chowder and Champions Celtics’ Trade Deadline Need Is Made Obvious in Showdown Loss to Pistons

CLNS Media/YouTube LIVE Garden Report: Celtics vs Pistons Postgame Show on CLNS Media

Derrick White FULL Postgame Interview | Celtics vs Pistons 12-15

Jaylen Brown FULL Postgame Interview | Celtics vs Pistons 12-15

Joe Mazzulla Postgame Interview | Celtics vs Pistons

Javonte Green on Wearing Jayson Tatum’s Shoes + Achilles Recovery | Full Interview

SI .com Kristaps Porzingis Facing Sad and Familiar Retirement Possibility

Detroit Pistons make statement in win vs. Boston Celtics

USAB USA Basketball, Celtics, NBA Team Up to Raise Awareness of NMDP Registry in Honor of Ed Lacerte

Globe/YouTube Slam Dunk: Celtics need fewer three pointers

Boston 25 Boston Celtics reveal longtime trainer is in the midst of leukemia battle

The Celtics Chronicle Celtics Mailbag: The Cold Shooting Problem, Hauser’s Role & More

82 Games Why OKC’s Defense Feels Suffocating: A Physicality/Playing Hard Deep Dive

Detroit Bad Boys Pistons vs. Celtics final score: Cade, Detroit bench power victory

Javonte Green is That Guy

NBA/YouTube PISTONS at CELTICS | FULL GAME HIGHLIGHTS | December 15, 2025

Talkbasket Joe Mazzulla addresses Pistons’ bench dominance after Celtics’ loss

The Sports Hub Celtics can’t hold off Pistons on way to 112-105 loss

Audacy Celtics’ mistakes prove too costly in loss to Pistons

Heavy Celtics Made a Call That’s Starting to Make Sense

Celtics’ Jaylen Brown Postgame Comments Turned Heads

New Celtics Injury Could Be a Trade Deadline Problem

Athlon Sports Derrick White Assigns Blame After Celtics’ Loss to Pistons

Fadeaway World Kendrick Perkins Shares ‘Gary Payton 2AM Story’ When He Was A Rookie: “Hey Ugly, I Need Bottle Of Patron”

Paul Pierce Ranks Stephen Curry Over LeBron James As The Best Player Of The Modern Era

Derrick White Defends Jaylen Brown Following Crushing Loss To Pistons

MLive Cade Cunningham clutch again as Pistons outlast Celtics in Boston

Fan Recap Boston Celtics Eye Bold Trade Move Involving Anfernee Simons

Locked on Celtics SELF-INFLICTED: Boston Celtics TURNOVERS, missed shots, SQUANDER chance to beat Pistons

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/boston-celtics-daily-links/126977/boston-celtics-daily-links-12-16-25

 

[Boston Celtics]

Open trade season means open mailbag time

I make no secret about the fact that I love transaction season. Trades are exciting! Trade rumors and speculation is fun because there’s always the hope of something great happening. That doesn’t mean I’m very good at trade ideas. I don’t have delusions of grandeur or refer to myself as the Picasso of the Trade Machine (who would do that?). But I do enjoy throwing ideas out there to discuss, shooting down other people’s ideas, and ultimately looking silly because Brad Stevens is so much better at his job than I could ever pretend to be. Also, trade season sure does drive traffic to the site!

I’ve already tried priming the pump for these discussions. I also tried trading Anfernee Simons to all 30 teams. But now I’m turning the mic over to you.

So here I am, opening up the mailbag and inviting you to lob your queries over the fence. I’ll do my best to answer them in the spirit that they are intended. Or you can send me trade suggestions and I’ll do my best to not make fun of them.

Mind you, the questions don’t have to be limited to trades and rumors. I’m happy to field questions about the current team or the season thus far or whatever you want to talk about. Anyone have a good casserole recipe to share for these cold winter evenings? Don’t take investing advice from me, but I’m currently a little concerned with an AI bubble in the economy. Oh, and I think I’ve read one too many books in the fantasy genre because I feel like I could write the outline of a standard trilogy involving swords, dragons, wizards, and a plucky young hero who’s just beginning to tap into powers he wasn’t aware he had. But I digress.

You know the drill. Leave the questions in the comments below and I’ll wait a few days and respond with a post later in the week. Thanks!

(Oh, and a plug for The Feed – if you find yourself running long on your questions or unsatisfied with my answers, feel free to show us how it is really done by posting your own thoughts on The Feed)

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/boston-...065/open-trade-season-means-open-mailbag-time

 

[Boston Celtics]

Boston Celtics Daily Links 12/17/25

Globe ‘Does he even have enough money?’ Bill Chisholm closed the deal of his life when he bought the Celtics.

Knicks win NBA Cup after rallying to beat Spurs, Jalen Brunson named MVP

Adam Silver says the NBA may look into giving the Miami Heat relief over the status of Terry Rozier

CLNS Media Do You Want to Become a Coach? Here’s a Guide That Will Help You

NESN Derrick White Defends Celtics Star After Frustrating Loss To Pistons

Celtics’ Bizarre Schedule Splits Don’t Bode Well For Next Game Vs. Heat

Two-Time NBA Champion Floated As Ideal Trade Target For Celtics

Former Celtics Champion Named As A Potential Trade Candidate

Celtics’ Biggest Roster Need Is Clear

Celtics’ Jaylen Brown Fueling MVP Talk With Eye-Popping Hot Streak

Mass Live Brad Stevens explains notable Jayson Tatum detail in Achilles rehab

Ex-Boston Celtics center’s nagging nerve injury gets positive update

Celtics Wire Should the Celtics trade Anfernee Simons for Bucks big Myles Turner?

Should we blame the NBA Cup for the Celtics looking rusty this week?

Are the Boston Celtics weaknesses starting to show?

Boston Celtics rookie Hugo Gonzalez on what it was like to start as a pro at just age 9

Celtics jersey history No. 45 – Kadeem Allen (2017)

Celtics history: Wilkins and Hondo go for 43 – 31 years apart; Yabu born

Boston Sports Journal NBA Notebook: How soon can Jayson Tatum return from an Achilles tear?

Hardwood Houdini NBA’s latest attempt to pity the Knicks should make Celtics fans laugh

Former Celtics tryout piece has found new career arc as a star

Celtics discovering new Hugo Gonzalez development that could begin change

Jaylen Brown is taking one leap that has Celtics defying every expectation

Chowder and Champions Celtics’ Anfernee Simons Experiment Is Likely Already a Lost Cause

CLNS Media/YouTube Will Celtics Continue to WIN After Strong Start? | Garden Report

Brad Stevens Gives a Jayson Tatum INJURY UPDATE | Celtics Practice

Noa Dalzell’s 2 big takeaways from Celtics’ loss to Pistons | You Got Boston Podcast

Celtics WEAKNESS Is Now Starting to Show | Big 3 NBA Podcast w/ Gary Washburn & Sherrod Blakely

Heavy Celtics Made a Call That’s Starting to Make Sense

Celtics’ ‘Most Appealing’ Trade Assets Revealed

Celtics Chronicle The Boston Celtics Going Small Should Not Be A Feature

Sole Retriever The Latest Jordan Tatum 4 is a Party of Pebbled Leather and Neon Pink

Space City Scoop Grade the Mock Trade: Rockets make massive Celtics gamble in new proposal

Sporting News Proposed Celtics trade sees Boston land $108 million two-time block champ as upgrade from Neemias Queta

Hoops Wire NBA Rumors: Pacers, Bennedict Mathurin, Celtics, Anfernee Simons, Heat

Fadeaway World Potential Trade Scenario For Celtics To Land Reliable Shot-Blocking Big Man

13 WGME Maine Celtics spread holiday cheer with shopping spree for local kids

SI .com Derrick White Gives Celtics a Big Three Combo that Could Be Dangerous in the Playoffs

Boston Celtics Legend Makes Bold Claim About OKC Thunder Competition

Celtics Missing Key Players on Defense From Last Year’s Team Evident in Pistons Loss

Last Word on Sports Are The Boston Celtics Missing Jayson Tatum’s Presence?

Locked on Celtics Boston Celtics “CHEESECAKE FACTORY” offense: MUST BE ready for anything

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Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/boston-celtics-daily-links/127070/boston-celtics-daily-links-12-17-25

 

[Boston Celtics]

Anfernee Simons is still finding where he fits in Boston

When the Celtics moved Jrue Holiday for Anfernee Simons last summer, it was easy to view the trade through a financial lens. Boston needed flexibility. Simons offered shooting, youth, and a smaller expiring deal.

It wasn’t a perfect match, but there was enough upside to let it play out and see how he fit within Joe Mazzulla’s system alongside Boston’s stars.

Twenty-five games into the season, we’ve gotten a meaningful look at it, albeit in a much smaller role. Currently, he’s averaging 13PPG in 23.7 minutes — lower than any of his previous four seasons with the Trail Blazers.

In Portland, Simons was the offensive engine. He logged heavy on-ball reps and operated with freedom as a primary creator. In Boston, that role no longer exists. He’s been asked to condense his game, make quicker decisions, and thrive with fewer touches.

Some #1 options can benefit from the move to a shrunken role on a better team, but it’s a difficult challenge to squeeze enough out of a skillset based around volume shooting and explosive scoring runs.

On paper, there’s been success in specific areas. His finishing has improved on lower volume, and he ranks in the 95th percentile in three-point attempts per 100 possessions while raising his efficiency. The spacing generated by Boston’s offense has afforded him cleaner looks than he’s had in years.

While some things are working, the relationship itself hasn’t clicked. Simons has accepted a bench role with professionalism, but that hasn’t translated into the level of scoring punch that’ll swing momentum. His presence isn’t killing them, but it’s not really much of a boost either.

When filtering out low-leverage minutes, that shows up clearly. The Celtics are essentially neutral with Simons on the floor (+0.4 Net Rating), compared to a +6.9 mark when he’s off. For a player brought in to juice the bench offense, the swing is hard to ignore.

In Boston, he isn’t afforded the same green light he’s grown accustomed to, and that adjustment has proven tricky. His touches have dropped sharply — from 65.1 per game in Portland to 41.7 — but the way he uses them hasn’t changed much. He still ranks first on the team in seconds per touch, and second in average dribbles per touch.

That disconnect matters. In a smaller role, they need his possessions to be decisive. Extending advantages and using his scoring ability to pick apart rotating defenses. Instead, Simons is often operating with the cadence of a primary creator in a role that wasn’t built for it. The result is efficiency that looks good, but doesn’t hit the right notes in terms of impact or cohesion.

The tension becomes clearer when you zoom into different lineup combinations.

Next to Jaylen Brown, Simons should theoretically benefit from Brown’s scoring gravity. There have been flashes, but the pairing tends to lean toward self-creation rather than quick attacks in the gaps. It’s two scorers operating in parallel instead of in concert.

Excluding low-leverage minutes, the numbers reflect that imbalance:

— Brown & Simons: –0.83 Net Rating
— Simons, no Brown: +1.89
— Brown, no Simons: +7.87

It’s not an indictment of either player on its own. But it does suggest that, so far, the fit has been more clunky than complementary. There is hope though, if Simons can shift his approach.

His best work this year has come on catch-and-shoot looks, where he’s converting 45.7% of his threes. In comparison, he’s shooting 29.9% on pull-ups from deep. If he settles deeper into an off-ball role, it could help offset a lot of the struggles next to a player that should only make his life easier.

There’s still a place for his creation ability, but they can pick his spots better. When Brown is on the bench it’s a good time to lean on his shotmaking. If they’re sharing the floor, Simons can’t let the ball stick too much.

On the other side of the floor, it has been about as expected for Simons.

To his credit, Simons has brought focus on the defensive end, showing he’s serious about improving. His frame and strength limit his overall influence, but Boston’s own lineup constraints haven’t helped. Early in the season, he spent significant time alongside Luka Garza, forming an untenable defensive pair (-8.5 Net Rating). Even with Simons’ commitment and effort at the point of attack, it was hard for Boston to protect both of them.

The pairing ultimately zapped Simons’ offensive impact as well.

Adding a more reliable defender into the equation has made a clear difference as Simons, as he and Queta share a +5.96 Net Rating. It allows him time to navigate screens and recover, along with the security of a capable rim protector patrolling behind him. Even small-ball lineups with Minott have been a more effective option.

Simons’ defensive limitations with Garza highlight why lineup composition is important to get the most from him. When paired with Queta’s shot blocking ability, he has the necessary support to succeed. It also enables him to thrive on offense with an effective screener and athletic roller at center.

The season is still young, and there’s room for growth. As he spends more time with the team, they may find the right combinations and style for positive results. Or it could be a place of discomfort that ultimately never clicks. His place in their future plans has never felt permanent, but if it’s not Boston, he still has reason to play his best basketball in a contract year.

Ultimately, Simons’ success here will depend on how much further he can embrace the framework the Celtics have in place, while continuing to mold his game to fit cleanly. If he can strike a more useful balance between pull-up and spot-up scoring, and he’s supported by preferable lineups, he and the team will be better off for it.

Simons has shown he can be efficient in Boston’s ecosystem. What he hasn’t shown yet is that his game consistently elevates the lineups he’s part of. That intersection between production and impact is a question the Celtics still haven’t answered.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/articles/127116/anfernee-simons-is-still-finding-where-he-fits-in-boston

 

[Boston Celtics]

Celtics could be without 2 players against Miami Heat

BOSTON — The Celtics could be without Sam Hauser and Josh Minott ahead of Friday’s game against the Miami Heat. Hauser is still recovering from a left ankle sprain he suffered in Monday night’s loss to the Detroit Pistons, but is listed as probable to play.

Minott, meanwhile, is also on the injury report, listed as probable with low back spasms.

Jayson Tatum remains out as he continues to recover from an Achilles rupture suffered last May.

Injury Report for tomorrow vs. MIA:

Sam Hauser (left ankle sprain) – PROBABLE
Josh Minott (low back spasm) – PROBABLE
Jayson Tatum (right Achilles repair) – OUT

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) December 18, 2025

For Hauser, this sprain is not the ankle that caused him to miss the majority of the Celtics’ series against the New York Knicks last May — that was his right ankle. But the veteran sharpshooter has dealt with several ankle sprains throughout his Celtics tenure.

Hauser is in the midst of a down year with the Celtics; he’s shooting a career-low 34% from three (and 34.3% from the field) in 21.6 minutes per game, while averaging 6.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists.

On Monday, in Hauser’s absence — and coming off of three days of rest — Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard all played increased minutes, while Baylor Scheierman (15 minutes) and Hugo Gonzalez (16 minutes) both shouldered a heavier load off the bench than they have on a typical night.

“Not having Sam — his ability to execute and really play from an offensive standpoint, getting us defensively,” Joe Mazzula said on Monday. “But, we talked about before the game — that’s just part of the depth that we have. The next guy’s got to play.”

The Celtics have seen remarkable health this season​

Compared to other teams in the NBA, the Celtics have faced very few injury woes throughout the first few months of the NBA season. Neemias Queta missed two games with an ankle injury, Derrick White missed one game with a calf contusion, and Jaylen Brown missed one game with illness. Outside of that, the rotation has been mostly unscathed.

Hauser has been readily available throughout his five-year Celtics tenure; he played in 80 of 82 games in the 2022-23 season, in 79 games of the Celtics’ championship season, and in 71 games last year, while dealing with a back injury that hampered him earlier in the season.

Josh Minott, who has averaged 7 points and 4.4 rebounds in 19 minutes per game, while shooting a career-high 44.3% from three, has also yet to miss a game for the Celtics.

The Celtics (15-11) will host the Miami Heat (14-12) at 7pm on Friday night at TD Garden.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/articles/127073/celtics-injury-report-sam-hauser-josh-minott-miami-heat

 

[Boston Celtics]

Boston Celtics Daily Links 12/19/25

Herald Rockets owners reportedly in talks to buy, relocate WNBA’s Sun

Celtics rookie taught lesson in ‘really tough’ sequence vs. Pistons

Brad Stevens dishes on Jayson Tatum’s progress, Celtics’ trade deadline plans

Globe What Jaylen Brown said about finishing his career with the Celtics

What Brad Stevens said of Celtics’ trade deadline plans

Brad Stevens gives update on ‘long progression’ ahead of potential Jayson Tatum return

Court Sense: How the Celtics got sold

Celtics vs. Heat: Can Boston rebound from two straight losses?

‘Does he even have enough money?’ Bill Chisholm closed the deal of his life when he bought the Celtics.

Brad Stevens most happy to see how Celtics veterans have pushed the young players forward

Knicks coach Mike Brown would like league officials to consider post-NBA Cup scheduling changes

CelticsBlog Three things to look for as the Celtics try to bounce back against the Heat

Celtics small ball leading to offensive surge and defensive dip

Jordan Walsh is right on track — and Brad Stevens has the right perspective

From Luke Kornet to Neemias Queta: the evolution of the Celtics center

High IQ plays of Week 8

Anfernee Simons is still finding where he fits in Boston

CLNS Media Latest Celtics Losses Raise Concerns About Sustainability of Strong Start

Celtics .com Brad Stevens Praises Patience, Development One-Third Into Season

NBC Sports Boston Forsberg: ‘No ceiling’ for C’s and more takeaways from Stevens’ comments

Mazzulla’s latest wild idea: Why Celtics coach wants a wolf

NESN Jaylen Brown Opens Up About Lingering Frustration From 2022 NBA Finals

Jaylen Brown Makes Bold Prediction On Jayson Tatum’s Return

Celtics’ Jaylen Brown In Rare Company With Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic

Jaylen Brown Gets Brutally Honest On 2022 NBA Finals Loss To Warriors

Bill Simmons Breaks Down Celtics’ Looming Trade Deadline Dilemma

Mass Live Jaylen Brown believes Jayson Tatum return is coming soon

Celtics Mailbag: Surprise starter creates intriguing contract dilemma

Celtics almost traded for Knicks star before title run

Celtics Wire What should Celtics forward Jordan Walsh be called for a nickname?

Brad Stevens hinted the Celtics might trade to improve the roster

Is Jaylen Brown about to up his flopping game with the Boston Celtics?

Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat: Stream, lineups, injury reports, broadcast (12/19)

Celtics jersey history No. 45 – Dalano Banton (2023-24)

Celtics history: Kevin McHale, Tom Gugliotta born

The new Robert Parish biography ‘The Chief’ and why you should read it

Wyc Grousbeck stake in Celtics to majorly drop in near future

USF to reportedly honor Celtics icon Bill Russell with ‘Impact Classic’ game

Maine Celtics GM Jarrell Christian reportedly joining WNBA’s Seattle Storm as assistant

Maine Celtics GM Jarrell Christian reportedly joining WNBA’s Seattle Storm as assistant

Joe Mazzulla on how Celtics need physicality to win this season

The Athletic Anfernee Simons? Anthony Davis? Looking at Celtics NBA trade candidates

NBA Trade Board 2025-26: Anthony Davis, Trae Young and other potential movers

Getting back to Seattle has been long overdue for the NBA

Boston Sports Journal Picks ‘n Pops: An almost-trade for Jalen Brunson, how the Celtics learn, and couples therapy

Everything Brad Stevens had to say about Jayson Tatum’s progress, approaching potential trades, and more

Hardwood Houdini Sudden Neemias Queta evolution could change everything for the Celtics

The Celtics just signed a new player to the organization

Latest Giannis trade report is devastating for two of Celtics’ rivals

Brad Stevens’ offseason gamble has been an absolute bust for Celtics

Jaylen Brown delivers blunt reality about his Celtics future

Celtics are getting harsh Joe Mazzulla lesson right now

Kyrie Irving’s latest actions will make Celtics fans laugh

Chowder and Champions 3 Celtics Players who have Disappointed to Begin the Season

CLNS Media/YouTube Celtics Playoff Prospects + Anfernee Simons future | Big 3 NBA Podcast

Hugo Gonzalez Gets BIG SCRATCH at Celtics Practice | Full Interview

Joe Mazzulla: Jordan Walsh LOVES Anime | Celtics Practice

Brad Stevens Gives a Jayson Tatum INJURY UPDATE | Celtics Practice

SI .com Three Impending Celtics Free Agents Unlikely to Return Next Season

Miami Heat-Boston Celtics Injury Report, Betting Lines, How to Watch, Lineups & More

NESN/YouTube Celtics vs Heat Might Reveal a Major Celtics Problem

Could Celtics Be Buyers At The Trade Deadline? With Justin Turpin

Hoops Rumors Celtics Notes: Chisholm, Brown, White, Christian

Clutch Points Celtics’ Jaylen Brown guarantees Stephen Curry wouldn’t beat him 1-on-1

NBA Analysis Brad Stevens reveals trade deadline plans for the Boston Celtics

Hoops Wire NBA Notes: Celtics, Jaylen Brown, Nets, Michael Porter Jr, Heat

Fadeaway World Jaylen Brown Admits He’s Still Angry About 2022 Finals Loss, Says Stephen Curry Took One Of His Rings

Jaylen Brown Calls Out Shai Gilgeous-Alexander For His Foul-Baiting Antic

“Celtics Just Got Scary Again”: NBA Fans React To Latest Update On Jayson Tatum’s Injury Return Timeline

The Lead 2025-26 NBA MVP Ladder Week 9: Three Ja(y)lens Climbing

CBS Sports Celtics’ Jaylen Brown lighting up scoreboard entering clash vs. Heat

How Jordan Walsh went from the end of the Celtics’ bench to shutting down some of the NBA’s best scorers

Heavy Jaylen Brown Still ‘Mad’ After 2022 Finals, Sends Message to Steph Curry

Celtics Hear Bold Claim About Jayson Tatum’s Recovery

Jayson Tatum Makes Bold Comment About Celtics Return

Basketball Network Jaylen Brown expressed his displeasure over SGA’s foul-baiting habits: “It’s a difference between drawing a foul and flopping”

“If you can make a run at it, your window isn’t forever” – Draymond Green urges the Celtics to let Jayson Tatum come back

The Source ‘NBA 2K26’ Reveals Ratings Boosts for Jaylen Brown, Stephon Castle, and Derik Queen

Hot Hot Hoops GAME PREVIEW: Heat take on rival Celtics in second night of a back-to-back

Fan Recap Celtics Champion Benched for Weeks Amid Growing Roster Questions

Locked on Celtics The TRUTH About Jayson Tatum’s Boston Celtics Comeback—What You’re Missing

Sportskeeda “LeBron will be flopping” – Jaylen Brown Quips About Becoming a Flopper After Calling Out Luka Doncic & Other Stars

Talkbasket Brad Stevens says Celtics open to deadline upgrades

Sportscasting Celtics Trade Rumors: Brad Stevens Says Boston Will Complete A Deal If It ‘Makes Sense’

Sporting News Jayson Tatum injury update is good news for Celtics

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/boston-celtics-daily-links/127168/boston-celtics-daily-links-12-19-25

 

[Boston Celtics]

Derrick White’s hot shooting leads Celtics past Heat, 129-116

Returning from a three-day break after a loss to the Pistons, the Boston Celtics (16-11) hosted a Miami Heat team (15-13) that lost five of its last six games on Friday night. The Celtics won their first matchup against the Heat, separating with a scorching fourth quarter shooting display for a 129-116 win.

On a night where Boston celebrated Isaiah Thomas for his 52-point game against the Heat nearly nine years ago, the Celtics were paced by Derrick White’s season-high 33 points. Jaylen Brown, who entered the night on a five-game streak of scoring 30 points or more, finished with 30 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists. The Heat were led by Kel’el Ware with 24 points.

Closing out a back-to-back, Miami was without Tyler Herro, Davion Mitchell, Andrew Wiggins, Nikola Jovic and Pelle Larsson.

Neemias Queta got Boston going early, beating Kel’el Ware with a spin move and a left hook finish for an early 4 points. He later followed up a Jordan Walsh layup with a block on Jaime Jaquez.

After back-to-back threes from Derrick White and Payton Pritchard, the Celtics took a 14-8 lead, though a 9-0 Miami run pushed them ahead early. Boston broke that run with a Josh Minott steal-and-score, which would spark a 7-0 run of their own, and included another Minott pickpocket that led to a Hugo Gonzalez dunk and a 28-25 Celtics lead.

What a play pic.twitter.com/njFakUSUx1

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) December 20, 2025

In the final seconds of the first quarter, Anfernee Simons got his first basket, slashing past Bam Adebayo for a layup with 11 seconds left, though a last-second Jaquez corner three cut Boston’s lead down to 30-29 entering the second quarter.

Behind 10-of-25 3-point shooting and an offensive rebounding edge of 11-4 in the first half, Miami opened up a lead that got as big as eight in the second quarter behind Ware’s 12 points.

The Celtics got strong efforts from White and Brown to keep it close, with Brown hitting his first two baskets of the game in the second quarter and White leading the team with 19 first-half points. White also had three blocks to go with five made threes.

Out of a timeout with 3:35 left in the half, Boston’s defense helped spark a 7-0 run in just over a minute, with two Miami possessions ending in blocked shots and another in a turnover, forcing a timeout after White tied the game with a catch-and-shoot three. In the final minute, White drilled another deep three, tying the game 58-58 entering halftime.

5th three of the half from Derrick White is a deeeeep one. pic.twitter.com/pn3hRLzQlB

— Nekias (Nuh-KY-us) Duncan (@NekiasNBA) December 20, 2025

A go-ahead Pritchard 3-pointer opened the second half, but Miami continued to convert on its own looks from beyond the arc. The same can be said for White, who hit his sixth three of the night early in the quarter, taking the ball on a handoff and nailing an off-balance trey.

Despite Miami hitting four of its first six 3-pointers, Boston struck back with an 8-0 run featuring a Queta three-point play, a pair of Jaylen Brown free throws and a Simons three to temporarily give Boston the lead back. Behind Brown’s 15 third quarter points and 7-of-8 shooting from the line, along with White hitting his seventh three of the night with a minute to go, the Celtics took a slim 92-89 lead into the fourth quarter.

The Celtics got off to a hot start to the fourth quarter thanks to consecutive threes from Sam Hauser in the same spot on the left slot. His second three came on a fastbreak pull-up that was created by a Gonzalez steal. It lifted Boston to a 98-91 lead in the first minute of the quarter, forcing a quick Miami timeout. Miami would need another timeout less than two minutes later, when White and Simons buried back-to-back threes for a 104-94 Celtics lead with 9:35 to go.

The Celtics ultimately hit their first six 3-pointers, forcing Erik Spoelstra to revert to a timeout for a third time in the quarter’s first four minutes, this time after White banked in his ninth three and Hauser hit his fourth straight on a Queta handoff for a 110-96 lead.

threes for pic.twitter.com/S8j5BzIB3D

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) December 20, 2025

The Celtics’ hot shooting extended throughout the entire fourth quarter, converting on 67% of those looks to lead by as many as 17 points. Hauser, who was coming off 0-for-11 3-point shooting in his last two games, hit on four of his five fourth quarter attempts to help Boston run away with its 16th win of the season.

Closing out a back-to-back on the road, the Celtics will travel to Scotiabank Arena Saturday night to take on the Toronto Raptors (17-11) for a second time this month. That game starts at 7:00 p.m.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/celtics...-hot-shooting-leads-celtics-past-heat-129-116

 

[Boston Celtics]

Parquet Plays: How the Celtics burned the Heat with speed

Facing the threat of a third consecutive loss, the Boston Celtics responded with a strong performance, defeating the Miami Heat 129–116 at home.

Derrick White and Jaylen Brown combined for 63 points, as Boston’s emphasis on speed and tempo proved decisive against the third-ranked defense in the league per NET rating.

“We just played so much faster on the offensive end,” said Joe Mazzulla after the game. While Boston’s small-ball lineups struggled at times on the glass against Kel’el Ware and Bam Adebayo, the increased pace created significant matchup problems for Miami.

With Neemias Queta on the court, Boston’s pace was 93.1 and with him off, it skyrocketed to 109.6. The team was still a +5 in Queta’s minutes, even with him playing through some pain taking two hard falls. What he does nightly is still super valuable, and the Celtics’ ability to find success with both traditional lineups and small-ball configurations speak to the roster’s versatility.

“We were able to create a bunch of 2-on-1s with our speed,” Mazzulla added. He later reiterated that, “the offensive pace and the speed that we had that kind of got us good looks against a team that’s one of the best defensive teams in the league.”

One of the ways I thought the Celtics used their speed on offense was with Ghost screens.

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On this first play it looks like the Celtics were going to Stagger Spain.

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Staggered screens are two of the same off balls screens with a little space in between.

After White comes off the screens to receive the ball, they set up in Spain but when Bam gets switched onto White, Queta just goes to the paint. Anfernee Simons then comes to set the Ghost screen, and that creates separation and another switch. Then, Simons beats one of the best defenders to the rim with his speed.

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Celtics go to the same look here starting with the Stagger screens.

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It’s important to note that on most of these clips, they elect to get the big guarding the ball before setting the ghost screen. Bam again is one of the most versatile defenders in the game, but any big would have some trouble moving laterally that fast while processing coverage.

Hauser eventually comes to set the Ghost screen and drills a three.

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They get White to the wing here to get the play started. Again, Queta sets the ball screen to get the big on the ball. Simons comes over and notice how for a split-second Ware stops moving. That gives White just enough room to drive and step back over a good contest.

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On this one the Ghost screen doesn’t do much to Ware, but I believe the purpose of this one was to clear space for Simons. Hauser was on the wing, meaning Norman Powell would’ve been in the gap to help on Simons. After the Hauser screen you can see how much driving room Simons has to work with. Bam becomes the only extra defender on that side and even he is in the corner. Simons uses his speed advantage and finishes.

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This time, Hauser runs to the far side of Ware to set the Ghost screen and is still able to get an open look.

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This time White is the screener and again the goal is getting the big guarding out in space. As White gets the ball, Ware is still moving towards him, which is the cue for White to drive it. Another slight hesitation gets him into the paint for an easy pull up.

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Lastly, this one by Hugo causes complete discombobulation, giving White a lane to drive. This leads to advantage basketball and a corner three by Hauser.

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Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/articles/127333/parquet-plays-how-the-celtics-burned-the-heat-with-speed

 

[Boston Celtics]

Celtics roll the Raptors, 112-96

The Boston Celtics traveled across the border to the Scotiabank Arena Saturday night to take on the third-placed Toronto Raptors. The lead see-sawed throughout the first three quarters, but Boston rolled the Raptors in the fourth to take a big win, 112-96. Pritchard led the way on the road with 33 points, 10 assists and 8 boards as Boston move to 17 wins on the season.

Jaylen Brown was not available for the visiting Celtics due to illness, whilst RJ Barrett and Jakob Poeltl were also ruled out for the home side. Sam Hauser got the starting nod for Boston alongside White, Pritchard, Queta, and Walsh.

Neemias Queta scored the first points of the game with a soft floater in the key off a dive and dish from Pritchard. Pritchard nailed a deep straight-on triple with his first shot of the night. Payton had the ball in his hands to create for the team on the first three plays of the night with JB out.

Former Pelican Brandon Ingram drilled a tough corner three, and Mamukelashvili hit his first three-pointer of the game to take an early 11-5 lead. Pritchard found Queta rolling to the key to convert on a layup as the Portuguese big man had 5 early points.

Pritchard danced with the ball outside the three-point line before taking Mamukelashvili inside and hitting a step-back foul-line pull-up jumper over the Raptor big man. Boston wasn’t providing much resistance at the other end, as the Raps had seven makes early and a 3-point lead.

Mazzulla made wholesale changes to the lineup at the 5-minute mark as Garza, Simons, Gonzalez, and Minott joined Payton Pritchard to close out the first quarter. Garza converted 2 free throws for Boston in his first significant game-time action since the December 5th clash against the Wizards. Garza followed up, scoring 4 strong points in the paint for Boston as the bench crew took a 5-point lead.

The energy shifted in Boston’s favor; the road C’s reeled off 16 straight points to end the quarter up by 12 points, 32-20. Garza and Gonzalez are providing the spark off the bench, with Garza battling on the interior and the Spanish rookie picking up Raptors in full-court pressure.

Luka Garza recorded 5 offensive boards in the first quarter alone as Joe Mazzulla rolled with the former T-Wolf to start the second quarter. The start of the second quarter was less fluid for both teams, and Boston logged its sixth turnover of the night to Toronto’s four. The Raptors were shooting just 32 percent from the field, highlighted by a poor 5-19 from three with 8 minutes left in the quarter.

Gonzalez picked up three fouls midway through the second and had to take a seat as Toronto started to chip away at the Boston advantage to just 8 points, 41-33, with 5 minutes to go in the half. Sam Hauser’s first three-pointer came at the 2-minute mark, as Boston held a shaky 6-point lead.

Queta was whistled for a Flagrant Foul 1 on Scottie Barnes after the Raptor wing sold a pump fake and got clocked for his efforts under the basket. Barnes came alive after the foul and dunked the ball for his fifth point of the game.

Immanuel Quickley drained a triple at the top of the key as the home team completed the comeback and finally took back the lead. Boston was outscored 31-17 in the second quarter, its lowest total of the season. With Jaylen Brown out of the clash, the Celtics went scoreless for the final 2 and a half minutes of the half.

Pritchard got to work to start the third, draining a three-point pull-up and getting into the lane; the guard had 13 points and counting to start the third quarter. Mamukelashvili and Ingram hit back-to-back triples to answer.

A between-the-legs, step-back corner three-pointer for Pritchard saw the sixth lead change of the night. Anfernee Simons hit a tough shot over rookie Murray-Boyles, his 11th point.

Baylor Scheierman saw his first court time of the game late in the third quarter as Mazzulla was searching for a spark to lift the C’s in the SEGABABA. Grady Dick converted on an up-and-under layup as Toronto once again retook the lead. Boston was led by Pritchard, who had 19 points in the quarter. Payton was stuffing the stat sheet for Boston in the third; he logged his ninth assist, sixth rebound, and a team-high 27 points as Boston battled back to lead 83-80.

Boston had 42 points in the paint to start the 4th quarter; Toronto had just 26 points. The Celtics also were out rebounding the home team, 48-40, at the start of the final stanza. Anfernee Simons hit 5 straight points to start the fourth quarter for the C’s.

Garza scored in the paint on a follow tip-in after a Simons’ drive attempt; Luka was probably having his best game of the season with a quarter to go. Derrick White’s third triple of the night over an outstretched Brandon Ingram gave the C’s a ten-point lead with nine minutes to go in the game.

Garza, Scheierman, Gonzalez, White, and Simons were super solid for Boston as Pritch got some much-needed rest for Boston. Derrick White started to have his way with Toronto and got the hoop and harm over Ja’Kobe Walter, his 14th point of the game.

Luka Garza recorded a staggering ninth offensive rebound of the game; his hustle was infectious for Boston on the road back-to-back. Garza and Queta both saw playing time as Mazzulla opted for a double big lineup in a huge stretch to try and close it out. That experiment didn’t last long though, as Mazzulla went back to Hauser and Gonzalez alongside White, Pritchard, and Queta.

19 year-old Spanish rook, stole the ball on the entry pass to Ingram, Hugo then dribbled past three Toronto flat footed defenders to sky for the loud two-handed jam. ¡Vamos! HUGO. Pritchard’s step back jumper called game on the contest as Boston had a 12-point lead with 2 minutes left in the game. The C’s would hold on to win bigtime on the road, missing the team’s best player in Jaylen Brown.

Boston next faces the Indiana Pacers at home on Monday night at 7:30pm in their final game before Christmas.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/celtics-scores-results/127397/celtics-roll-the-raptors-112-96

 

[Boston Celtics]

10 Takeaways from a game won on the margins

#1 – Luka Garza and the Celtics controlled the board​

I never thought I would start the 10 Takeaways with Luka Garza, but here we are – and how could we not? In 26 minutes, the former Timberwolves big man grabbed nine offensive rebounds. That’s as many as the entire Raptors team.

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Led by Garza, the Celtics brought much more energy and showed far more discipline on the glass, and that is what won them the game. Looking at the Four Factors, the Celtics and the Raptors performed similarly in eFG%, TOV% and FT rate… but the rebounding domination was outrageous.

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Because of that, the Celtics finished with 101.6 true shot attempts last night, ten more than the Raptors. With ten extra opportunities to score, Boston built an important road win against another playoff team in the East.

#2 – Pritchard hunting the jump shots​

Last night in Toronto, Payton Pritchard took 18 jump shots. From seven to 30 feet, Pritchard was able to get to his spots without losing the ball. Only one turnover, while generating 33 points and 10 assists.

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Against all matchups, he was comfortable using his speed and punished the Raptors’ switch defense. When defended by Jamal Shead or Immanuel Quickley, he actively looked for a screen to either create space or force a slower defender onto him.

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Once switched onto Scottie Barnes or Sandro Mamukelashvili, PP could speed things up with ease and consistently find his spots, even against an aggressive defense. Thirty-three points on 65% true shooting, alongside ten assists — safe to say Pritchard was very comfortable with the increased usage with Jaylen Brown out.

#3 – Pick-and-roll reps for PP​

Alongside one of the best screeners in the league in Queta and without Brown as a ball-handler, it was the perfect night for Pritchard to work on his pick-and-roll game. On this first example, notice how close his hips are to the screener, which pins Brandon Ingram below the play.

Because of his shooting gravity, Mamukelashvili overcommits defensively and jumps, which opens the roll for Queta. With the Celtics’ best shooters stationed in the corners — Derrick White and Sam Hauser — there is no help, and that’s two easy points generated out of the pick-and-roll.

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The Celtics ran a lot of pick-and-roll to punish the Raptors’ switch defense, but once they realized Gradey Dick couldn’t keep up with PP, they shifted to a double-and-recover coverage. However, Joe Mazzulla is no fool. He asked Baylor Scheierman to set a screen on an empty side, so when the Raptors briefly double Pritchard after the screen, there is no help coming from the corner and he can drive the ball. A clever read from both Pritchard and the coaching staff to punish the aggressive coverage.

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#4 – Bench zone defense​

After the rebounding and Pritchard’s scoring, the third major reason for the Celtics’ win was the zone defense with the bench unit. The goal of that zone was simple: force as many jump shots as possible — and the numbers show it worked.

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In their previous game, the Raptors took only 24% of their shots from deep, generating far more attempts and efficiency at the rim. Last night, the Celtics forced a very different profile: 51% of Toronto’s shots came from beyond the arc, while rim attempts dropped to just 23%, with poor efficiency (50% on shots within four feet).

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With less rim protection in the bench unit, the Celtics bet on the Raptors’ lack of shot-making to compensate. It worked well — as long as Mamukelashvili wasn’t on the floor.

#5 – Mamukelashvili dilemma​

The former Spur kept the Raptors in the game thanks to his scoring. To protect the paint at all costs, the Celtics were willing to leave him alone in order to keep Neemias Queta or Garza near the rim — but he was not the right guy to ignore from deep.

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After six made three-pointers, the Celtics adjusted their coverage and put their center on players with less shooting gravity, such as Ja’Kobe Walter or Scottie Barnes. This allowed them to stay closer to the paint without taking unnecessary risks on Mamukelashvili’s shot.

As the Raptors big man rarely uses post-ups and plays more like a guard, Derrick White or Hugo Gonzalez were better defensive matchups for him.

#6 – Queta playing in space​

Another highly efficient scoring night for Queta, with only one missed free throw and seven made field goals on 100% efficiency. To create space and use his speed, Joe Mazzulla and his staff deployed him frequently away from the paint.

In the first action below, he gets the ball from a handoff, then flows directly into a zoom action as a screener to create a gap for Pritchard. After all that movement, he can use the space to flash into the paint.

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The timing of the next play is also excellent in helping Queta move in space. Sam Hauser’s back screen on Mamukelashvili comes just late enough to give Queta the best possible angle to roll to the rim.

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And yet, the most impressive play from Queta came in the third quarter. Catching the ball beyond the arc, he fakes, drives against Sandro, and with just a few dribbles gets deep into the paint to score at the rim by himself.

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#7 – Gonzalez inbound cuts​

Speaking of tactics, let’s look at Hugo Gonzalez’s two buckets off inbound plays. They show that Hugo is much quicker than his size and body language might suggest. On the first play, he completely tricks Gradey Dick, forcing him into Garza’s screen. With the switch poorly executed and Scottie Barnes too close to Josh Minott, it results in an open layup.

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Using a similar approach in the second quarter, Hugo again uses a screen from Garza before sprinting to the rim. Barnes stays attached to him but expects Sandro to switch — and it’s already too late, as Hugo finds himself free at the rim once again.

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#8 – Reversed Spain PnR​

Joe Mazzulla also pulled another card from his playbook with a reversed Spain pick-and-roll. Usually, a Spain pick-and-roll uses the big man as the initial screener on the ball, with a shooter setting the back screen. On the play below, the roles are reversed, with the ball screen from Hauser and the back screen from Garza.

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It doesn’t create enough immediate separation, but once Garza sets the second screen, the Celtics flow into a handoff that generates strong offensive continuity. They also ran the traditional Spain pick-and-roll to keep the defense guessing.

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#9 – Baylor Scheierman forced 3 turnovers in 3 minutes​

In just eight minutes, Baylor Scheiermann made an immediate impact at a crucial moment of the game. Starting the fourth quarter, he applied strong pressure on the ball and created transition opportunities — including a beautiful pass to Hugo.

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Like last season, despite limited playing time (around ten minutes per game), Baylor keeps impacting the game defensively with his ability to generate turnovers, consistently showing his basketball IQ.

#10 – Double-big lineup​

After weeks of seeing small-ball lineups off the bench, Luka Garza was back in the rotation and the Celtics played with a true center on the floor at all times — even using two centers together at points. That’s how little they respected the Raptors’ spacing.

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Queta and Garza switched onto wings without much concern for their shooting, making sure no one could touch the paint.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/articles/127425/10-takeaways-from-a-game-won-on-the-margins

 

[Boston Celtics]

Boston Celtics Daily Links 12/21/25

Herald Payton Pritchard, Hugo Gonzalez lead Celtics past Raptors without Jaylen Brown

Globe Payton Pritchard leads shorthanded Celtics to gutty win over Raptors: 7 takeaways

Payton Pritchard drops 33 points as spark plug in Celtics win over Raptors

Boston sports anecdotes aplenty feature on new YouTube channel

Payton Pritchard leads Celtics to victory over Raptors as Jaylen Brown sits out

Celtics Green Comments from the Other Side – Raptors 12/20/25

CelticsBlog 10 Takeaways from a game won on the margins

Luka Garza’s patience and grit have reinforced Joe Mazzulla’s “respect” for Celtics backup

Celtics roll the Raptors, 112-96

Celtics .com Keys to the Game: Celtics 112, Raptors 96

NBC Sports Boston Celtics-Raptors recap: Pritchard does it all as C’s triumph in Toronto

Hugo Gonzalez ‘brings the energy’ in huge night vs. Raptors

NESN Gritty Celtics Stat Shows Strong Influence Of Joe Mazzulla

Cooper Flagg Expresses Appreciation For Ex-Celtics Guard Kyrie Irving

Latest Joe Mazzulla Personal Story Will Make Celtics Fans Laugh

Payton Pritchard Explodes For 33 Points, 10 Assists As Celtics Beat Raptors

Jaylen Brown Reveals His No. 1 Point Guard Of All Time, And It’s Not Magic Johnson

Jayson Tatum Drops Truth Bomb On Celtics’ 2024 NBA Finals Victory

Mass Live Joe Mazzulla reveals why he sat starter in second half of Celtics win vs. Raptors

Celtics rookie looks like hidden gem of NBA Draft after win over Raptors

Boston Celtics reserve shines in rare opportunity in Raptors win

Payton Pritchard explodes for big scoring night in peculiar trend

Payton Pritchard is the Celtics ‘Name to Know’ Player of the Game in Saturday’s win over Raptors

4 takeaways as Celtics beat Raptors as intriguing rookie posts career night

Celtics Wire HoF Celtics center Kevin Garnett wants to train Victor Wembanyama

Sandro Mamukelashvili on how Celtics won battle of the boards vs. Raptors

What Toronto Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic saw Boston Celtics doing to beat them Saturday

Mazzulla on how Boston Celtics came together to beat Toronto Raptors without Jaylen Brown

Celtics jersey history No. 50 – Greg Kite (1983-88)

Celtics history: Celtics beat Jazz without making a 3-pointer

Pritchard, Boston Celtics bench step up to beat Raptors 112-96 on the road (PHOTOS)

Celtics outlast Raptors without Jaylen Brown, win 112-96

When it comes to Hugo Gonzalez’ motor with Celtics, Derrick White is a believer

Boston Sports Journal NBA Notebook: Dru Smith on what’s next in Jayson Tatum’s Achilles recovery

Karalis: Another game, another supporting cast steps up, but Gonzalez stands out

BSJ Game Report: Celtics 112. Raptors 96 – Pritchard’s near triple-double leads Celtics team effort in Toronto

Hardwood Houdini Joe Mazzulla perfectly captures why Isaiah Thomas will always be a Celtics icon

Celtics just got a dose of the secret sauce powering Payton Pritchard

CLNS Media/YouTube Garden Report: Celtics vs Raptors Postgame Show on CLNS Media – Payton TAKEOVER in the 6!

Celtics are Defying ALL ODDS, Hugo Gonzalez Looks Like Lottery Talent | You Got Boston w Noa Dalzell

Joe Mazzulla on Hugo Gonzalez’s Role, Jordan Walsh Sick | Celtics Raptors Postgame

Darko Rajaković: We Did OUTSTANDING Job Guarding Celtics | FULL Raptors Postgame Interview

Toronto Star Payton Pritchard’s 33 points lead undermanned Celtics past hurting Raptors 112-96

The Sports Hub Celtics outmatch Raptors, 112-96

5 takeaways: Celtics continue to climb East rankings

SI .com Celtics’ Trade Deadline Plans Clear With Luka Garza, Xavier Tillman, and Chris Boucher MIA

Jayson Tatum Should Improve After Injury Return Amidst Derrick White’s Career Year

Raptors snap winning streak, lose vs. Celtics in cold 4th quarter

Five numbers to know after Raptors fall vs. Celtics

NBA .com Game Preview: Pacers at Celtics

Player of the Night – Payton Pritchard – Dec. 20

CELTICS at RAPTORS | FULL GAME HIGHLIGHTS | December 20, 2025

NBC Sports Boston /YouTube INSTANT REACTION: PASSPORT P’s UNREAL 19-point third quarter leads way C’s in win in Toronto

The Sports Rush “Just Barbeque, Talk Sports”: Jaylen Brown Grateful for Idol Tracy McGrady’s Guidance Over the Years

Accused of Copping Out, Jaylen Brown Reveals How Many More Years He Expects to Play in the NBA

Raptors Republic/YouTube Payton Pritchard Goes OFF On Raptors | Full Game Film Analysis | Raptors vs Celtics

People Jaylen Brown Knows You’ve Seen His Viral Hair Moments—and He’s Ready to Talk About Them (Exclusive)

Audacy This win was an example of why the Celtics are so intriguing

Locked on Celtics Payton Pritchard IGNITES Boston Celtics, Backups to DOMINATE Without Jaylen Brown

The Lead There Should Be No Discussion of a Jayson Tatum Return This Year

Raptors Republic An insidious 12-0 run killed the Raptors

Bleacher Report Jaylen Brown Reacts to Viral Hair Videos, NBA Rivals ‘Lucky… I Left My Mark on Them’

Sporting News Hugo Gonzalez gives the reason why he played well on a back-to-back for the Celtics

TalkBasket Sam Hauser’s shooting surge boosts Celtics outlook

Fan Recap Celtics Shift Hugo Gonzalez Into Bold New Role Against Top Opponents

BasketNews Jaylen Brown apologizes to Raptors star after his inappropriate viral comment

Portland Press Herald Maine Celtics rally from 16 down to beat Austin

Heavy Celtics Reveal Reason Behind Starter’s Surprise Benching

Eurohoops Hugo González on NBA Lessons, guarding superstars, and life around the league

Essentially Sports Did NBA Fine Derrick White and Grady Dick for Exchanging Jerseys? Fact Checking Viral News

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/boston-celtics-daily-links/127395/boston-celtics-daily-links-12-21-25

 

[Boston Celtics]

Luka Garza’s patience and grit have reinforced Joe Mazzulla’s “respect” for Celtics backup

It hasn’t been easy for first-year Celtics center Luka Garza this season, but the 26-year-old has found a silver lining on Boston’s bench as part of the Stay Ready crew.

Garza, like most non-returning players from last season’s Celtics roster, didn’t have anything guaranteed when Boston signed him to a two-year, $5.5 million contract in the offseason. Even with Kristaps Porzingis, Luke Kornet, and Al Horford — the team’s three most-used centers in 2024-25 — all gone, the message from Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla and the organization was clear: minutes had to be earned, and patience was essential from the start, especially for Garza.

Four straight DNPs hadn’t slowed him entering Saturday night. With Jaylen Brown sidelined by illness, the 6-foot-10 backup finally got the call against the Raptors in Toronto.

“I got a lot of respect for Luka,” Mazzulla said after Boston’s 112-96 win. “I think he changed the game for us.”

Garza made his preparation evident. He logged 25:43, playing 20-plus minutes for the first time in over four weeks (since Nov. 18), and delivered one of his best performances in a Celtics uniform: 12 points and a season-high 10 rebounds, including nine on the offensive glass — two short of setting a franchise record held by Paul Silas (11). It was his first double-double of the season and paired with rookie Hugo González who also recorded a double-double (10 points, 10 rebounds), the two became Boston’s first bench duo to post double-doubles since Evan Turner and Tyler Zeller in 2016.

In the fourth quarter on Saturday night, Garza shadowed Toronto’s bigs, hovering over their shoulders to corral three offensive rebounds and pitch in to Boston’s 23-17 margin victory in second-chance points. He finished with a plus-22 rating — his highest this season — and served as a testament not only to himself in Mazzulla’s eyes, but to the entire Celtics coaching staff and their work behind the scenes.

“It’s really a credit to the player development staff and Luka to just staying ready and trusting our process of winning,” Mazzulla said. “When he came out, I thought he changed the game during the stretch he played with his physicality and his offensive rebounds. He helped us come out as the more physical team tonight.”

Garza’s extra-mile effort went a long way for the Celtics, who dominated the boards 38-28 and outscored Toronto 54-32 in the paint. Mazzulla leaned on Garza to execute his role effectively, ensuring that Brown’s absence never became a decisive factor. By creating second-chance opportunities and punishing Toronto’s weaker interior, Garza helped mask Boston’s struggles from beyond the arc — the Celtics went just 12-for-39 (31%) from three — and more importantly, secured the team’s third consecutive win on the second night of a back-to-back.

“We knew what type of matchup (came with) Garza,” Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković said. “… We did not do enough of boxing out and fighting against those guys.”

The mindset required of all Boston newcomers is one Garza has embraced all season. He’s been candid about the eagerness that comes with staying ready on the bench, watching close contests either slip away or fall in Boston’s favor. Last month, after matching a season-high 16 points against the Magic, Garza elaborated on the experiences he and many Celtics reserves share from their Stay Ready seats.

“We all wanna get out there,” Garza said back on Nov. 9. “We all play this game for a reason. We want to be on the floor, and we know that when we are on the floor, to make an impact, we have to play hard — and that’s a non-negotiable. Effort is a non-negotiable. That’s what we try to bring every time we step on the floor and do the best with what we’ve got.”

Regardless of not seeing the floor in over two weeks, Garza stayed as ready as a backup quarterback, prepared to step in whenever Boston needed him.

That readiness has been especially important with Neemias Queta established as the team’s go-to big and Jordan Walsh riding a recent hot streak, leaving Garza in a challenging spot for consistent minutes.

His scattered playing time has kept the fifth-year veteran on his toes, a reminder that no matter the starting lineup or rotation on any given night, Mazzulla and the coaching staff can make changes when necessary. That mindset has been an integral part of Boston’s formula for success as the current third seed in the Eastern Conference.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/article...rced-joe-mazzullas-respect-for-celtics-backup

 

[Boston Celtics]

Celtics complete 20-point comeback, beat Pacers 103-95

On a night when Jaylen Brown scored 31 points, it was Hugo Gonzalez who shined bright for the Celtics, playing nearly the entire second half. His energy was such a key in Boston’s comeback after they looked flat for the first half and the beginning of the 2nd half.

Jordan Walsh joined Jayson Tatum on the injury report with an illness. Thus, the Celtics started Payton Pritchard, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Josh Minott and Neemias Queta. For Indiana, they started Andrew Nembhard, Bennedict Mathurin, Ethan Thompson, Pascal Siakam and Jay Huff. Thompson is a two-way rookie who has made 3 previous starts in 8 appearances.

The Pacers have had a lot of injuries this season and Monday was no different. They were missing Tyrese Haliburton, Aaron Nesmith, T.J. McConnell, Ben Sheppard and Obi Toppin for the game.

The Pacers got off to a 13-9 start before Mazzulla brought in Luka Garza as his first sub off of the bench.

Indiana could not miss from beyond the arc at the start of the game, making 8 of their first 9 attempts.

Pacers are 8-9 from deep in 8 minutes. Most they’ve made in a quarter all season

— Dan Greenberg (@StoolGreenie) December 23, 2025

After the Celtics had an 8-0 run to cut the lead to 4, Indiana closed the quarter with 5 straight points and led 35-26 after the first quarter. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 9 points while Derrick White had 8 of his own.

The Celtics just looked out of sorts for the first half. Indiana’s defense was flying around making plays and they simply could not miss on the other end. Their dribble penetration gave the Celtics a lot of issues in the first half.

The Pacers led 61-43 at the end of the first half. Pascal Siakam dominated, scoring 23 points with 3 rebounds. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 11 points at halftime.

Indiana gets 1.298 points/possession in the first half.

They average 1.081 for the season, last in the NBA.

Their season high for a game is 1.270

Indiana last in the NBA in 3-point shooting (32%). They go 12-20 in the first half.

61-43, Pacers, 2nd half now @985thesportshub

— Sean Grande (@SeanGrandePBP) December 23, 2025

Hugo Gonzalez started the 2nd half over Josh Minott. Joe Mazzulla has done that a couple times this season, start the 2nd half with a different lineup than what started the first half. It is not very common in the NBA to do that.

Minott ended up not playing the entire 2nd half.

Joe Mazzulla was not happy with the Celtics so he pulled 4 of the 5 guys on the floor, leaving Hugo Gonzalez as the only guy who stated the 2nd half remains in the game.

That group came into the game and went on a 10-2 run that led to a Rick Carlisle timeout.

The timeout did not stop the bench, however. They continued to play hard and fought back into the game with a 19-5 stretch with a nasty Anfernee Simons step back cut the Pacers lead to 6.

anfernee simons does like 14 things in a game to drive you crazy and then he hits a shot like that. his step back is genuinely insane.

— jack (@janderson22_) December 23, 2025

The rest of the quarter was back and fourth and the Pacers led the Celtics 82-74 at the end of three quarters. Brown still led the team in scoring with 17 while Simons had 11 off of the bench, 9 of which came in the 3rd quarter.

The Pacers went ice cold at the start of the fourth quarter, not scoring for the first 3:02 of the quarter with Carlisle calling another timeout. The Celtics defense really turned it up and were the main catalyst to making it a 2-point game.

The Celtics would take the lead but it was back and forth from that point on. Bennedict Mathurin and Andrew Nembhard hit shots to keep Indiana in it.

However, Indiana just did not have any offense in the fourth quarter, with just 9 points as the Celtics went up 10 with 41.7 seconds to go in the game.

The game finished 103-95. Brown finished with 31 and White with 19 but the star of the game was Hugo Gonzalez. He played the entire 2nd half, with 6 points, 11 rebounds and 2 block, finishing a +21. He just impacts winning and at just 19-years-old, who knows how good he can become.

That was an awesome win for the Celtics. They shot 43% from the field and 30% from three while the Pacers shot 39% from the field and 33% from three. The Celtics next game is on Friday is against the Pacers, in Indiana this time, at 7:00 EST.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/celtics...hard-derrick-white-jaylen-brown-pascal-siakam

 

[Boston Celtics]

Boston Celtics Daily Links 12/23/25

Herald Jaylen Brown having ‘favorite season’ of his career for overachieving Celtics

Celtics’ bench sparks spirited comeback in win over Pacers

Rookie Hugo Gonzalez isn’t playing like 19-year-old for Celtics

Globe Former Celtics star Jrue Holiday’s Newton home sells for $6.7M

Jaylen Brown, Celtics chip away and rally for impressive win over Pacers: 7 takeaways

Jaylen Brown scores 31 points as Celtics rally past Pacers 103-95

Joe Mazzulla continues to win mind games as benching starters leads to Celtics victory over Pacers

Court Sense: Celtics’ bench mob delivers

Celtics’ bench provided a spark, but Jaylen Brown had the finishing touch in comeback win over Pacers

Celtics Green Comments from the Other Side – Pacers 12/22/25

CelticsBlog Celtics comeback win sparked by two “really, really great” friends

10 Takeaways from the Celtics storming back against the Pacers

“It’s the NBA”: Joe Mazzulla used a 20-point Celtics deficit as a lesson in perspective

Celtics complete 20-point comeback, beat Pacers 103-95

Celtics .com Keys to the Game: Celtics 103, Pacers 95

NBC Sports Boston Celtics-Pacers recap: Jaylen Brown leads C’s to thrilling comeback win

Hugo Gonzalez by the numbers: Inside the rookie’s early impact with Celtics

NESN Celtics Rookie Hugo González Inspires Hilarious X Post From Bill Simmons

Jaylen Brown Makes Celtics History With Monster Game Vs. Pacers

Celtics’ Jaylen Brown Throws Shade At Media While Explaining Why He’s Been Streaming

Celtics Role Player Opens Up About Inconsistent Playing Time

Celtics’ Jaylen Brown Claps Back At Haters With Strongly Worded Message

Celtics’ Jaylen Brown Reveals Initial Frustration With Key Coach’s Decision

Celtics’ Jaylen Brown Reveals Shocking Choice For Favorite Season

Jayson Tatum Has NSFW Message For Celtics’ Rookie

Pacers’ Head Coach Makes Key Admission After Celtics’ 20-Point Comeback Win

Mass Live Celtics star gives candid reaction to surprise benching in win vs. Pacers

Celtics rookie makes case for more playing time after Pacers win

Joe Mazzulla explains why he benched Celtics starters in Pacers win

Jaylen Brown is the Celtics ‘Name to Know’ Player of the Game in Monday’s win over Pacers

Joe Mazzulla benches Celtics starters in 3rd quarter, sparking rally vs. Pacers

4 takeaways as Celtics beat Pacers in thrilling comeback behind bench

Holy Cross to honor Worcester, Celtics legend Bob Cousy with dedicated basketball court

Celtics Wire Report: Celtics up to pay some lux tax, may keep Anfernee Simons

Mazzulla on how radical substitutions helped Celtics beat Pacers

Boston Celtics jersey history No. 50 – Theo Ratliff (2006-07)

Will the Boston Celtics be buyers at the 2026 NBA trade deadline?

The Celtics pulled off another heist in the NBA draft with Hugo Gonzalez

Celtics history: Dan Swartz born; Larry Bird triple-doubles

What are the Celtics are going to do at the 2026 NBA trade deadline?

Jaylen Brown opens up about his best Celtics teammate

Anfernee Simons was the unsung hero of the Celtics’ comeback win over the Pacers

Celtics complete 20-point comeback to top Pacers, 103-95

The Athletic Joe Mazzulla benches starters, but surprising move sparks Celtics’ win

Rick Carlisle, Celtics seek bone marrow donor for former team trainer

Boston Sports Journal Joe Mazzulla took a big chance when things looked their worst, and his ‘great call’ paid off for the Celtics

BSJ Game Report: Celtics 103, Pacers 95 – Bench unit saves starters in fun comeback win

Hardwood Houdini Celtics’ latest change is forcing rest of NBA to stay on its toes

Hugo Gonzalez is fixing his most glaring weakness in real-time

Luka Garza vindicated for lifelong quest (and Celtics are reaping reward)

Celtics getting brand new Jaylen Brown lesson when they needed it most

Celtics putting entire NBA on notice in a way nobody expected

Chowder and Champions Celtics Must Make Obvious Starting Lineup Change Before December Ends

CLNS Media/YouTube Garden Report: Celtics vs Pacers Postgame on CLNS – Mazzulla PULLS Starters Sparking Comeback!

Noa Dalzell: This Celtics team is SPECIAL | You Got Boston: a Celtics Podcast w/ Noa Dalzell

Jayson Tatum CRASHES Hugo Gonzalez Postgame Interview | Celtics vs Pacers 12-22

Jaylen Brown Was PI**ED Joe Mazzulla Benched Him & Celtics Starters | Postgame Interview

Luka Garza on Celtics Comeback vs Pacers | FULL Postgame Interview 12-22

Joe Mazzulla on BENCHING Celtics Starters | FULL Postgame Interview 12-22

Heavy Celtics ‘Hidden Gem’ Rookie Joins Tatum In Elite Franchise History

Celtics Jaylen Brown Admits He Was Angry Over Being Benched

Indy Cornrows Pacers unable to ride hot start to winning finish against Celtics

NBC 10 Boston/YouTube Highlights: Celtics overcome 20-point deficit to defeat the Pacers

NBA/YouTube EXTENDED: PACERS at CELTICS | FULL GAME HIGHLIGHTS | December 22, 2025

Sneaker News The Jordan Tatum 4 Celebrates Jayson’s First Ring With An “All-Star” Camo

Pro Football Network Celtics Star Jayson Tatum Reveals the Young Player Who’s ‘Stood Out’ to Him the Most This Season

Locked on Celtics GUTSY: Joe Mazzulla BENCHES starters, bench SAVES Boston Celtics in FUN comeback!

Athlon Sports Jaylen Brown’s Unexpected Take on Celtics Season Amid Jayson Tatum’s Absence

Essentially Sports “Bad MotherF—r”: Jayson Tatum Gives NSFW Shoutout to Celtics Teammate After Pacers Win

“I Was Pi**ed”: Jaylen Brown Makes Honest Confession on Benching Despite 31-Point Night in Celtics Win

SI .com Coaching wins milestone earned in Celtics-Pacers Monday night showdown

NBA Analysis Jaylen Brown names the Boston Celtics teammate who ‘really helped’ him when others just pretended

NBA Maniacs Boston gives Jayson Tatum plenty of reasons to be excited

Audacy Joe Mazzulla keeps pushing the right buttons for the Celtics

ESPN Pacers want NBA to review play that injured Isaiah Jackson

Clutch Points Celtics’ Joe Mazzulla hit incredible personal milestone at near-record speed

Barstool Sports The Rise Of The Boston Celtics Continues To Be One Of The Best Stories Of The Entire NBA Season

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/boston-celtics-daily-links/127489/boston-celtics-daily-links-12-23-25

 

[Boston Celtics]

Celtics comeback win sparked by two “really, really great” friends

BOSTON — On paper, Celtics forwards Baylor Scheierman and Hugo Gonzalez don’t have a ton in common. Scheierman is a 25-year-old from Nebraska; Gonzalez is a 19-year-old from Madrid.

But the Celtics’ two most recent first-round draft picks have quickly formed a great friendship apparent to anyone who steps foot into the Celtics locker room or takes a look over at the huddle during a timeout break.

Scheierman is working on improving his Spanish, as evidenced by a 100+ day Duolingo streak in honor of his hermano. And, Gonzalez is the first to cheer (or more accurately, scream) in celebration of Scheierman whenever he achieves anything on the floor.

On Monday night, the two young Celtics jointly sparked the biggest comeback of the season. With Boston trailing the Indiana Pacers by 20 early in the third quarter, Joe Mazzulla decided he had seen enough. He yanked Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, and Neemias Queta out of the ball game, and subbed in Anfernee Simons, Sam Hauser, Baylor Scheierman, and Luka Garza, alongside Gonzalez.

The bench mob cut a 20-point deficit to 10 points, and Brown (31 points, 9 rebounds) took things over from there, pouring in 18 points in the final 13 minutes of the game to secure the win.

If you didn’t actually watch the game, you may not realize just how impactful Scheierman and Gonzalez were as a duo; Gonzalez tallied 6 points, Scheierman just 3.

But in that game-saving third quarter run, each of the youngsters drew a momentum-shifting offensive foul. Scheierman played stellar defense on Andrew Nembhard and hit a transition three, while Gonzalez devoured the glass and tallied a block.

And, every time the tides turned, the duo erupted with joy — both because the deficit was being trimmed, but also because they were doing it together.

“We’ve been really, really great friends,” Gonzalez said after the 103-95 Celtics win. “And, we’ve had some great times. And, obviously, I’m super, super happy when he steps on the court and he changes the game for us.”

Asked Hugo Gonzalez about his friendship with Baylor Scheierman, who he jokingly called “really stupid.”

“We’ve been really really great friends.”

“I’m super, super happy whenever he steps on the court and he changes the game for us… today’s game is a lot on his shoulder.” https://t.co/tAb8Tk8amn pic.twitter.com/fNP6dwzvCc

— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) December 23, 2025

Gonzalez played the entirety of the second half, ultimately finishing the night with a new career-high in minutes (37) and rebounds (11). Scheierman, meanwhile, played a total of 12 minutes — 9 of those coming in the third quarter.

“He’s just been incredible — today’s game was a lot on his shoulders,” Gonzalez said. “He was able to not play in the first half, but [did] in the second half, it’s not the first time he does it. He was part of that run in the third quarter to come back.”

In theory, Gonzalez and Scheierman are competing for minutes​

On the season, Gonzalez has averaged 14.2 minutes a night, while Scheierman has averaged 11.6. Both players have shot the ball well from the outside — Gonzalez is shooting 41.4% from three, Scheierman 42.9% — and both have demonstrated a proclivity for drawing charges and racking up steals. Both are also Brad Stevens’ only two first-round picks as general manager.

But in reality, the two newfound friends have become each other’s biggest cheerleaders. There’s zero animosity from Scheierman that the rookie has been surging in recent days, and potentially eating into his minutes.

“He’s just always happy when I play good,” Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez and Scheierman have been plenty of goofy moments. Last month, after a win over the Detroit Pistons, Gonzalez crashed Scheierman’s postgame media scrum, and pretended to ask questions, pointing his sneaker insole toward the huddle with a grin on his face in place of a microphone.

The 19-year-old whispered for a reporter to ask Scheierman who was better at NBA2K, and erupted into laughter when the question was actually asked.

Hugo Gonzalez joined Baylor Scheierman’s scrum and had a shoe insole in place of a mic lol pic.twitter.com/TTQhn8UiAY

— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) November 27, 2025

After that Pistons game, it was Scheierman who was the man of the hour, having tallied 13 points in 30 minutes (Gonzalez only played 7 minutes that night).

The friendship was on full display on the basketball court in Saturday night’s win against the Toronto Raptors. Scheierman, who had barely played all night, started the fourth quarter and immediately tallied two fourth-quarter steals, finding Gonzalez on the break with a no-look pass that resulted in a layup.

The two have shared the floor for just 80 minutes this season, but they’ve been very jointly effective in those sints; Scheierman-Gonzalez lineups have held a +17.5 net rating, per the NBA’s lineup data.

Los hermanos pic.twitter.com/ySDOP9cfrv

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) December 21, 2025

Mazzulla has credited Scheierman for always finding ways to impact the game when his number has been called, even when the opportunity has just been limited to just a few-minute stint.

“He works really hard, so he’s always prepared,” Mazzulla said. “His confidence never wavers — whether he plays well or whether he makes a mistake, his confidence in his ability to impact winning is always there, and that helps a lot. And he can make an impact regardless of how many minutes he plays.”

And, Scheierman says the same about Gonzalez: “He comes in and just plays hard. He brings a lot of energy.”

Gonzalez and Scheierman first became friends in July, at Summer League in Las Vegas. Gonzalez was beginning his NBA career, just a few weeks removed from the draft, while Scheierman was eyeing his second season after spending much of his first in the G League.

But, if you walk by their adjacent lockers and overhear the laughter and chitchat, you’d think they’ve known each other forever.

“We sit together,” Gonzalez said. “We’re always talking, always giving [each other] feedback.”

Baylor Scheierman and Hugo Gonzalez are hype after the win pic.twitter.com/wJfj92Wqjr

— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) December 23, 2025

On Monday night, that friendship helped power a 20-point comeback, and the Celtics’ third straight victory. The duo walked off the floor grinning, excited by the exhilirating performance.

Winning feels good.

And, it was extra fun to do it together.

“Whenever the other is playing good, we’re really happy for each other,” Gonzalez said.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/articles/127535/hugo-gonzalez-baylor-scheierman-boston-celtics

 

[Boston Celtics]

Jaylen Brown found the line without crossing it

Every season, Jaylen Brown can be counted on to add or enhance a piece of his game. As he’s stepped into the full-time No. 1 option role, getting to the free throw line has been a massive factor behind his elite production.

Foul drawing is a skill.

There is the arm-hooking, foul-baiting variety that draws groans from fans, and a less manipulative style usually born from a size or strength advantage.

The former brings questions of ethics, but it’s hard to deny its effectiveness. And unless you’re Shaq, a size and strength edge isn’t always rewarded. For Jaylen in particular, his reputation and physical driving have never quite resulted in an equivalent whistle.

This is something he’s gone on the record about, most recently after a November loss to the Timberwolves.

“I’m one of the most aggressive downhill players in the league. Nobody’s as aggressive as me. And I don’t understand. Night to night, it’s the same thing. I don’t get it.”

While Brown may not like it, it does seem like he’s starting to understand. If players are profiting from initiating and embellishing contact, there’s room for one of the most aggressive drivers to do the same.

This season, Brown’s free throw rate is a career high .35 — a significant improvement on his previous best of .29. He’s also converting 78% of his free throws, another career best mark.

It isn’t a coincidence that he’s getting more attempts. Additional touches and a higher usage are part of it, but it’s a sense of unpredictability he’s established that puts him in control.

Ryan Rollins stays connected here until Jaylen gives him a bump to create space. That small window is all he needs for his shot, but anticipating Rollins will close the gap, he gets him off his feet to draw the foul. It’s a drive where he could’ve pulled up at any point, or powered through contact to the rim. If he hasn’t decided what’s going to happen, the defense is at his mercy.

There are less moments where it feels like he’s trying to get to a predetermined spot without another plan. Now, the plan is that every spot on the floor is an option, and defenders have to respect that.

Here he has a screen from Neemias Queta to get downhill against Jalen Duren. Duren is expecting Brown to drive right, but he attacks his top foot, going between the legs to his left hand. This opens up Duren’s hips, and Brown uses that as an opportunity to create space with the step back. This lands him right in front of Tobias Harris, who clearly expected he was headed for the rim and couldn’t avoid the contact.

This version of Jaylen is highly adaptable to different coverages. He is weaponizing the threat of his midrange and finishing ability to blur the scouting report. Drives turn into decelerated layups just as quickly as they become offbeat pull-ups.

His versatility as a scorer opens even more avenues to operate. He can hunt mismatches in isolation or in the post, and he’s comfortable as both a ball handler and screener in PnR actions.

It’s nearly impossible to anticipate Brown would come across the defender’s body to his weak hand here instead of going up strong with the right. There’s a level of precision and certainty to his unlikely movements that you can’t account for. It leaves a smaller defender with no choice but to foul.

Brown ranks 5th in the NBA with 17.3 drives per game. Among the top 20, only Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have a better field goal percentage on these looks. He’s generating the 6th most FTA on drives as well.

Even with an elite downhill game and a better understanding of foul drawing opportunities, Brown’s career best free throw rate still ranks just 55th in the league. There is a large gap between himself and free throw savants like Gilgeous-Alexander and James Harden.

“If you wanna be an MVP, you wanna be top of the top, you gotta sell your soul and just be a flopper. Y’all tell me: What do you want me to do? Y’all want me to be on that? I can do it!”

Brown isn’t wrong that foul-baiting can feel like selling your soul, but he’s found a balance that doesn’t require it.

The level that Jaylen is at right now is exceptional. He’s averaging 10.2 free throws per night over their last five games, and 7.6 on the year. It’s quietly been the engine behind his best scoring season yet.

What makes it sustainable is how he’s getting there. Brown isn’t chasing whistles, but he’s leveraging his strengths to force defenders into uncomfortable situations. The midrange is so lethal that they can’t sit back, and his powerful drives demand respect.

He can still get from point A to point B, but the options now feel endless everywhere in between. Overplay the drive and he stops short. Crowd his pull-up and he welcomes the contact. Either way, the defense is reacting instead of dictating.

For Brown, this is the best of both worlds. He gets to keep his soul – and already has a Finals MVP trophy sitting in his closet.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/articles/127569/jaylen-brown-found-the-line-without-crossing-it