The Boston Celtics dominated the Brooklyn Nets with a staggering 136-86 victory, securing Joe Mazzulla’s 100th win as head coach. Payton Pritchard led the charge with 28 points, supported by Derrick White’s 27 points and Jayson Tatum’s 20 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds. Despite missing Jaylen Brown and Al Horford due to injuries, the Celtics showcased their prowess, improving their NBA-best record to 43-12. This win marked their fourth victory over the Nets this season and the fifth 50-point win in team history. Trendon Watford managed 15 points for the struggling Nets, who have lost five of their last six games. The Nets faced a massive deficit, trailing by as many as 56 points in the fourth quarter.
Boston took control early, establishing a double-digit lead and extending it to a 37-point advantage in the second quarter, eventually reaching a 46-point lead in the third. The Celtics’ starters sat out the entire final period, a testament to their dominance throughout the game. Cam Johnson returned for the Nets after missing four games due to injury but made minimal impact, scoring four points off the bench. Despite his return, the Nets couldn’t contain Boston’s offensive onslaught, as the Celtics shot over 64% in the opening period and drained 22-of-44 three-pointers in the game.
Boston’s halftime lead of 68-32 was their largest since January 13, 2010, when they held a 36-point advantage over the New Jersey Nets. The Nets’ 34 points in the first half marked a season-low for them. Looking ahead, the Nets will face the Raptors on February 22, while the Celtics will take on the Bulls on the same day.
