3 takeaways from the Boston Celtics 120-107 win vs. the Memphis Grizzlies

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Jayson Tatum scored 37 points and Al Horford dropped 21 points and 15 rebounds as the Boston Celtics beat the red-hot Memphis Grizzlies. Here are the takeaways.

3 takeaways from the Boston Celtics win vs. the Memphis Grizzlies

1. New year, new team

The Boston Celtics are not the same team that struggled through the first half of the season. They are 20-8 since January 1 and, at this point, are not showing any signs of slowing down (as long as they stay relatively healthy). Boston boasts the second best defense in the league and is number one since the beginning of the year. 

2. Big Al shows off

The Celtics knew that Jaylen Brown would not be available and were looking for someone to step up on the offensive end. Al Horford played “turn back the clock” with his performance on Thursday and helped keep the Grizzlies at bay. He also added five assists and two blocks to his stat line on a night where the Celtics needed his veteran leadership in the absence of Brown.

3. Robert Williams continues to impress

The Time Lord’s stat line may not seem all that impressive (10 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, and 3 blocks) at first glance, but in Boston, it’s the consistency with which he is putting up these numbers. Williams has rewarded the C’s with his play after getting a new contract, something that many other players around the NBA can not claim. The green and white faithful are loving this output!

The Celtics will be back in action on Sunday at home when the Brooklyn Nets come calling in a 1:00 p.m. matinee. The game will be televised nationally on ESPN.