The Los Angeles Lakers’ eight-game winning streak came to an emphatic end as the Boston Celtics took control in a highly anticipated rivalry matchup. After a competitive first half, Boston pulled away with a 21-point surge in the third quarter, ultimately securing a convincing victory.
Despite a late push that brought them within four points in the fourth quarter, the Lakers couldn’t complete the comeback. Their hopes took a further hit when LeBron James exited with a groin strain.
Jayson Tatum led the way for Boston with a stellar 40-point performance, adding 12 rebounds and eight assists, while Jaylen Brown contributed 31 points. Luka Dončić finished with 34 points for L.A.
Both teams were missing key players, with Kristaps Porzingis sidelined for Boston due to illness and the Lakers missing Jaxson Hayes and Rui Hachimura. Al Horford stepped up for the Celtics, posting 14 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and three steals.
The loss drops the Lakers to third in the Western Conference standings, with Denver overtaking them for the second seed. Meanwhile, the Celtics, now 46-18, solidify their hold on the No. 2 spot in the East.
