Player of the Game: Jayson Tatum Outperforms Kawhi
Creator: Kirby Lee | Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports | Copyright: Kirby Lee
After a big second-half rally, the Celtics took down the Clippers 119-115. Jayson Tatum remained consistent throughout the night, finishing the game with 34 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 steals.
In the first quarter, the Clippers started out on a run obtaining an early lead on the Celtics. With both teams missing key players one thing would remain consistent, the stars would have to shine. Tatum started to pick up the slack offensively late in the first half stringing together a variety of buckets. Heading different lineups it never seemed to phase him.
In the second half, Tatum was locked in on both ends of the floor. Continuing to lead the charge, Tatum hit big shots down the stretch. He even found himself in a duel in the fourth quarter with Kawhi Leonard. The two matched up against one another for the majority of the period. JT was able to contain the former finals MVP with a little added help from Semi Ojeleye late in the game. The efforts defensively translated into offense as the Cās were able to get stops in the clutch. This kept the team close enough to allow Kemba Walker the opportunity to close out with what would presumably be the game-winning shot.
With another hard-fought west coast win, the Celtics look to continue their road trip. The club will take on the Phoenix Suns on Sunday at 2:00 PM EST on NBC Sports Boston.
