The Boston Celtics secured their fifth consecutive win by defeating the Toronto Raptors 108-105 in Toronto, improving their record to 2-0 in their In-Season Tournament Group C. Despite the Raptors being known as one of the NBA’s top fourth-quarter teams, they put up a tough figҺt and had a chance to win on their home court.
Throughout the game, the Celtics relied on key plays to stay competitive. Kristaps Porzingis made critical shots in the paint, helping to tie the game twice, while Derrick White displayed his clutch shooting by hitting a crucial shot from the corner to regain the lead for the Celtics with less than 30 seconds remaining. Jaylen Brown continued his impressive performance with slick dribbles and left-handed finishes, contributing 23 points on 9-of-14 shooting from the field, including three three-pointers.
However, Brown experienced several slips on the slippery court throughout the game, with his last slip occurring in the final seconds of the fourth quarter. As a precaution, the Celtics opted to take him out of the game, concerned about a potential ιnjury. Although he appeared to be in some discomfort, Brown assured Joe Mazzulla that there was nothing to worry about and that he was fine.
Following the victory, Brown expressed his dissatisfaction with the slippery condition of the Raptors’ court, describing it as “unacceptable.” This sentiment was shared by Toronto’s Precious Achiuwa, who agreed with Brown’s assessment.
While Brown seemed to walk gingerly to the Celtics’ bench after the slip, the training staff attended to him, and he assured everyone that he was okay. His true status will be revealed in the upcoming ιnjury report, as the Celtics prepare to face the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday night. The Grizzlies have recently lost Marcus Smart to a left ankle ιnjury. Boston aims to extend their winning streak to six games.