Celtics Fall Short in Revenge Game, Losing to Warriors
The Boston Celtics lose to the Golden State Warriors, 118-112. The focal point of the night was how will Jayson Tatum play after Steve Kerr did not play him in two games during the USA’s quest to win a gold medal in the Olympics this summer. Many people were shocked by that decision, but Steve Kerr claimed it was a “math” issue. But now, he and his 12 man rotation came to Boston and pulled out the win, in Boston, definitely not an easy thing to do. The Celtics came into this game without Jaylen Brown, who is still dealing with a hip injury, which we still are unaware of the severity of the injury, and obviously no KP. And for the Warriors, they were without Brandin Podziemski, so both teams were missing a piece of two in tonights matchup.
The Warriors came into this matchup at 7-1 and one of the best net ratings in the NBA. They are one of three teams in the NBA with a top 5 defensive rating, and a top 5 offensive rating. The other two teams are the Cavs, and the Boston Celtics. And that defense was definitely on display for the Warriors. The Warriors decided to blitz Jayson Tatum near at the top of the key whenever a screen and roll action would happen. This would cause a plethora of turnovers and lead to easy points for them, which would come crucial later in the game. The Warriors also retrieved a lot of offensive rebounds. They grabbed 15 rebounds on their end, and a lot of it came in clutch minutes. Kevon Looney seemed to be in the right place, at the right time, helping silence the Boston crowd and making sure the Warriors kept their lead. Buddy Hield continued to show great production off the bench for the Warriors, scoring 20 points off the bench, and making 4 3-pointers. But the offense of the Warriors is so good because of one man, and that is Steph Curry. 27 points, 7 rebounds, 9 assists, 4 steal and a block, just a little bit of everything, and causing so much pressure for such a poised Boston team.
For the Celtics, JT was on it tonight. Scoring 32 points on 50% shooting, both from the field and from 3, with 4 rebounds and 2 assists. Derrick White did Derrick White things, adding 26 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals. But Neemias Queta was the bright spot for the C’s. In his second straight start, also second of his career, and he played great. He scored 14 points, with 8 rebounds and 2 blocks. But the energy he brings for the Celtics is what makes him so valuable to the team, as he has such a high motor at such a young age. But it is clear that the Celtics were missing Jaylen Brown. They can beat most teams with their current lineup, but if they are gonna want to make another championship run, getting him and KP back are going to be crucial.
Warriors go on to Cleveland to play the Cavs in their next matchup, while the Celtics play the Nets at home on Friday night.
