The Boston Celtics earned a hard-fought victory over the Denver Nuggets, winning 118-106 despite the absence of three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic, who was sidelined due to illness. Jayson Tatum led Boston with 29 points, while Kristaps Porzingis contributed 25 points and 11 rebounds. The Celtics showcased their strength in the paint, outscoring the Nuggets 60-46, significantly relying less on their usual three-point shooting strategy.
Denver's Russell Westbrook scored 26 points, and Michael Porter Jr. added a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds. The game saw the Nuggets trailing by as many as 15 points but mounting a comeback to keep it competitive. A brief delay occurred midway through the second half due to spilled ice on the court, but play resumed with a tied score of 93 following a three-pointer from Christian Braun.
Boston responded with a decisive 15-0 run to secure the victory, reinforcing their solid defensive performance led by Al Horford and Tatum. The Nuggets struggled at home this season, falling to a record of 10-7. Next, the Celtics will host the Sacramento Kings on Friday while the Nuggets will face the Los Angeles Clippers.
