The Boston Celtics, the reigning NBA champions, successfully fended off the league’s hottest team on Tuesday night, defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 120-117 and ending Cleveland’s impressive 15-game winning streak to start the season. Jayson Tatum led the way for Boston with 33 points and 12 rebounds, contributing significantly to the victory.
The Celtics initially built a commanding 21-point lead, but the Cavaliers rallied, narrowing the gap to just two points in the third quarter. Donovan Mitchell, who scored 35 points, hit a crucial 3-pointer with 24 seconds remaining, bringing Cleveland within four. Tatum then made one of two free throws before a collision with Mitchell left the Cavaliers guard on the floor, requiring medical attention.
Mitchell returned to the game and sank both of his free throws, but the Celtics managed to inbound the ball smoothly, leading to a decisive dunk by Al Horford that sealed the win.
In addition to Tatum’s standout performance, the Celtics excelled from beyond the arc, hitting six 3-pointers from Tatum and finishing with a total of 22. Boston’s victory marks their third consecutive win.
Evan Mobley also had a strong showing for the Cavaliers, contributing 22 points and 11 rebounds. Cleveland’s 15-game winning streak was the longest in franchise history and made them just the fourth team in NBA history to begin a season with 15 straight victories.
Key Moments and Statistics
The Celtics shifted momentum late in the second quarter, scoring 19 of the final 26 points to extend their lead to 65-48 at halftime. In the first half, they shot an impressive 14 for 22 from 3-point range. With just over five minutes left in the game, Boston hit four consecutive 3-pointers, helping to establish their significant halftime advantage.
Looking Ahead
The Cavaliers will look to bounce back as they host the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the Celtics are set to visit the Washington Wizards on Friday, following a special visit to the White House to celebrate their 18th NBA championship.
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