NEW YORK -- The Boston Celtics edged past the Brooklyn Nets 115-113 on Saturday night, March 15, 2025, marking their eighth consecutive victory over Brooklyn and improving their season record to 49-19. Kristaps Porzingis made a significant impact upon his return from an eight-game absence due to illness, scoring 24 points, including 14 points in the decisive fourth quarter. Payton Pritchard contributed 22 points, and Jayson Tatum had 20 points, along with eight rebounds and eight assists.
The Celtics seemingly had the game under control, building up a commanding 21-point lead during the second quarter thanks to a dominant 25-7 scoring run. Despite facing adversity, including the absence of Derrick White and Al Horford for rest and Jaylen Brown leaving the game midway through the third quarter due to back spasms, the Celtics held firm against the relentless Nets.
Cameron Johnson led the Nets with 23 points and ten rebounds, with Keon Johnson adding 21 points, but the team fell short for their tenth loss in eleven games. The Nets did manage to cut the Celtics' lead down to just two points at one stage, provoking some tense moments late in the game.
With just under eight minutes left on the clock, the Celtics' lead dwindled to 94-92. Porzingis, who had not played since February 26, responded with a three-point play followed by his only three-pointer of the night, which extended Boston's lead to 100-92.
Pritchard set a remarkable milestone during the game, setting the NBA single-season record for 3-pointers made off the bench with his 219th successful shot.
On the defensive front, the Celtics had to contend with the Nets' charging offense, which recorded a 43.5% success rate from three-point distance, sinking 20 out of 46 attempts. Though the Celtics struggled with their own long-range shooting, Porzingis proved invaluable, playing 32 minutes, including the entire fourth quarter, where he tallied 12 points.
This win highlights the Celtics' resilience and depth, even when not at full strength. Following the game, coach Joe Mazzulla noted the importance of the victory, especially considering the circumstances.
Looking forward, the Celtics don’t have long to celebrate their win as they will face the Nets again on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at TD Garden. Meanwhile, the Nets prepare to host the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday, March 16, 2025, as they continue to seek improvement after what has been a disappointing season for the franchise.
While Boston thrives, Brooklyn grapples with injury setbacks—most significantly with their leading scorer Cam Thomas expected to miss the remainder of the season due to a strained left hamstring. Thomas, who averaged 24 points over 25 games played this season, has been increasingly missed as the Nets wrestle with their current form.
Today's game showcased the emergence of Pritchard, who is frontrunner for the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year award. His record-breaking achievement resonates beyond the stats as it speaks volumes about his development and the key role he plays within the Celtics' operations this season. This win serves as yet another strong indicator of the Celtics' readiness as they head toward the playoffs—exhibiting depth, skill, and determination needed to maintain their competitive edge.
With poise, the Celtics are carving their path toward potential playoff success, exhibiting the resilience necessary to navigate the approaching postseason.