BOSTON — The Cleveland Cavaliers pulled off an upset victory against the Boston Celtics, defeating them 123-116 at TD Garden on March 1, 2025. This significant win marks the Cavaliers' ninth consecutive victory, improving their record to 49-10, and dealt the Celtics, who fell to 42-18, a shocking defeat as they began their seven-game homestand.
The game started with all the intensity of a playoff battle. The Celtics, missing two key starters, Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, came roaring out of the gate. They established their dominance early on, sprinting to a phenomenal 25-3 lead just six minutes after the opening tip. Fans at the Garden were electrified, witnessing their team’s early prowess and relentless energy as Boston shot 7 of 9 from beyond the arc, showcasing remarkable accuracy and team chemistry.
"How does 30 points, nine rebounds and seven assists sound?" noted the coverage from NESN as Jayson Tatum led the charge, scoring 30 points by halftime. Jaylen Brown contributed significantly as well, adding 19 points before halftime, helping the Celtics build what seemed to be an insurmountable lead.
Despite Boston’s strong start, the Cavaliers were not easily disheartened. They showcased their resilience throughout the game. Cleveland, led by Donovan Mitchell, began shrinking the gap, cutting the lead to 96-95 with just seconds left on the clock in the third quarter, thanks to Mitchell's sharpshooting and a collective team effort.
After ending the third quarter at 98-95, the Celtics could not maintain their lead as the Cavaliers began to find their rhythm, tying the score at 100-100 early in the fourth quarter. Evan Mobley, who had been quiet early on, found his footing with clutch scoring, and soon the Cavaliers took the lead, much to the dismay of the once-boisterous crowd at the Garden.
With 10:40 left, Mobley hit another three-pointer, pushing Cleveland to 104-101. From there, the Cavaliers built upon their lead, relentlessly attacking the Celtics' defense. Darius Garland added pivotal points, including a dagger step-back jumper with less than 55 seconds left, sealing the win for the Cavaliers and snuffing out any hope of a Boston comeback.
Mitchell dazzled throughout the second half, finishing the game with 41 points, marking another high-stakes performance as he led the Cavaliers’ charge. Mobley tallied 17 points and 12 rebounds, solidifying his role as a force on both ends of the floor. Meanwhile, Jayson Tatum recorded 46 points, 16 rebounds, and 9 assists, delivering a remarkable performance even as his team faltered late.
The Celtics had stellar performances too. Brown finished with 37 points, continuing his streak of impressive play, but it was clear the team struggled without their usual depth, with only three players reaching double figures scoring. Derrick White contributed 16 points but was unable to provide sufficient assistance as the game slipped away.
At the end of the matchup, it was evident the Cavaliers not only showcased their worthiness as contenders but sent a strong message to the Celtics. They exemplified persistence and tenacity, coming from behind to claim victory against the reigning champions.
Both teams now look forward as they approach the playoffs. The Cavaliers will host the Portland Trail Blazers next, aiming to continue their impressive winning streak, whereas the Celtics prepare to face the Denver Nuggets, hoping to regroup quickly and get back on track.
This matchup was significant, not just for standings but as each team sends signals to their potential playoff opponents about the lengths they're willing to go to succeed. With both teams splitting their season series, the upcoming playoffs have become highly anticipated as these two powerhouses enter the postseason vying for supremacy.