In their first meeting this season, the Celtics bested the Lakers 126-115 in a Christmas contest showcasing the NBA’s most iconic rivalry.
In a Christmas clash showcasing the NBA’s most iconic rivalry, the Boston Celtics earned a 126-115 win over the Los Angeles Lakers in Tinseltown. At the center of it was a selfless approach from Jayson Tatum that exemplified his team’s maturation.
The now five-time All-Star undoubtedly wanted to seize the spotlight as he debuted his second Jordan signature sneaker on the marquee date on the NBA’s regular season calendar in a battle between the Celtics and Lakers set in the arena his childhood idol, Kobe Bryant, starred.
Unfazed, Tatum fueled Boston’s offense with his facilitating and screening, setting up his teammates to shine brightest. The three-time All-NBA selection finished with seven assists. He created 18 points with his passing. He also registered four screen assists, leading to ten points off his picks. Both were game-highs.
Since then, the Celtics have remained a freight train, plowing their way to an NBA-leading 37-11 record. Conversely, the purple and gold are 24-25 and ninth in the Western Conference.
As the two teams prepare for Thursday’s rematch at TD Garden, Los Angeles lists Lebron James (left ankle peroneal tendinopathy) and Anthony Davis (bilateral Achilles tendinopathy) as questionable for the contest. Cam Reddish (right ankle sprain) is out.
As for the hosts, after missing the last two games due to left hamstring tightness, Boston lists Luke Kornet as questionable for Thursday’s matchup.Â
