The Boston Celtics continued their dominance over the Toronto Raptors with a 105-96 victory during Monday’s NBA action. Jayson Tatum led the charge with a double-double, scoring 19 points and grabbing 14 rebounds. Jrue Holiday played a pivotal role, especially in the last quarter, contributing a season-high 22 points, with eight crucial points in the final stretch.
Derrick White matched Holiday’s score of 22 points, while Kristaps Porzingis added 15. Al Horford also had a significant impact with a double-double of 10 points and 11 rebounds, helping the Celtics to complete another season sweep over the Raptors.
White shined in the decisive fourth quarter, scoring 10 points including a critical three-pointer in the final minute. His contribution received high praise from teammate Holiday, highlighting his often underappreciated but impactful role on the team.
“What he does for our team a lot of times goes unnoticed,” Holiday said of White. “A lot of times, too, it makes a big impact.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, Boston Celtics, Toronto Raptors Updates
The Celtics faced the challenge without Jaylen Brown, who was sidelined due to a hyperextended right knee. Coach Joe Mazzulla expressed optimism about Brown’s condition, emphasizing the team’s resilience and ability to step up without key players.
“This year, we’ve shown that, regardless of who’s out, there’s an affirmation that everyone is going to step up,” Mazzulla said.
RJ Barrett was the top scorer for the Raptors with 24 points, followed by Immanuel Quickley with 21. Pascal Siakam and Scottie Barnes also made notable contributions, but it wasn’t enough to prevent the team’s fourth consecutive loss. Barnes also managed a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, Boston Celtics, Toronto Raptors Updates
Toronto struggled throughout the game, especially from the three-point line, hitting only 4-32 attempts, a season-low. Coach Darko Rajakovic acknowledged the team’s decent shot selection but lamented the poor execution.
“I thought it looked like we were getting good looks,” Rajakovic said. “The ball did not go in.”
The Celtics showcased their long-range shooting prowess, especially in the first half, which set the stage for their victory. Tatum’s performance in the third quarter was crucial in establishing a lead that the Raptors couldn’t overcome despite briefly leading in the third quarter.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, Boston Celtics, Toronto Raptors Updates
White’s fifth three-pointer in the final minutes sealed the deal for Boston, with Mazzulla praising his confidence and aggressiveness.
“His confidence and aggressiveness are super important,” Mazzulla said of White.
Looking ahead, the Celtics will host the San Antonio Spurs, while the Raptors are set to face the Miami Heat, both games scheduled for Wednesday night.
