The Boston Celtics’ starters are back at full strength. Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, and Jayson Tatum were available to beat Tyrese Haliburton’s Indiana Pacers. Kristaps Porzingis also got in on the action after being approved by the team’s medical staff. Joe Mazzulla gave him more than his fair share of minutes, something the big guy may have appreciated, according to NBC Sports.
“I believe it feels fine. It is not completely healed, but a rolled ankle is something you can play through. Of course, I want to be present at every game, particularly at home. It hurts every time I have to wear a suit or street clothes. “I was glad to be back tonight,” Kristaps Porzingis said.
The Celtics’ big man did not disappoint in his first game back. In 31 minutes of action, he led the club in rebounding with 12 rebounds. Porzingis also had 17 points and two assists to cap out the night. It’s safe to say he’s back and ready to go before the All-Star break. Other Celtics members came up to help the team win its 37th game of the season.
The Celtics got out to a fast start and quickly took control of the contest. They scored 36 points in the first quarter, while the Pacers scored 26. Jayson Tatum’s team would continue to crush them in the second quarter, scoring 45 points to the opponents’ 40.
Tyrese Haliburton and the Pacers came out strong after the halftime break. They took advantage of the Celtics’ worst quarter and attempted to take the game away from them, scoring 37 points in 12 minutes. The final minutes of this game were when both teams threw haymakers while playing flawless defense. However, the Celtics escaped with a five-point victory by outscoring the Pacers 23-21 in the fourth quarter.
Jayson Tatum has left his mark all over the offense. He made 12 out of 19 shots, totaling 30 points. The Celtics star also led the squad with seven assists. Tyrese Haliburton, on the other hand, did not give up. He helped the Pacers by scoring 13 points and dishing out 10 assists. Aaron Nesmith led the team in scoring with 26 points.
