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(Clippers guard Norman Powell blocks a dunk from Celtics' Jayson Tatum. Photo by Jonah Breton@Tangent Zine)
LOS ANGELES ---Twas two days before Christmas, when all through Crypto.com Arena—Clippers fans were stirring. The Kawhi Leonard bobbleheads were passed out with care, in hopes that Mr. Klaw would be there. (He was not, he had a left hip contusion.) While visions of a win danced in the Celtics fans heads, this writer of elfish stature was feeling some kind of dread. Santa Klaw was out, and against a 17-time NBA champion team, there clearly was doubt.
(Clippers' Paul George attempts to drive. Photo by Jonah Breton@Tangent Zine)
The weather forecast in LA is dry today, but it was raining three pointers as the visiting Celtics made 25 out of 53 attempts for a 47.2 % clip from beyond the arc routing the Clippers on a Christmas weekend 145-108. Despite the blowout, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla remained humble in victory.
(Clippers guard James Harden preps for step back three pointer. Photo by Jonah Breton @Tangent Zine)
“I do not consider it a statement win,” Mazzulla said. “I consider it a win (and) an opportunity where we played well and continue to figure out where we didn’t play well. We left a lot on the table as far as our execution and the things we want to accomplish.”
Six Celtics scored in double figures, led by Jayson Tatum's 30 points, Jrue Holiday 20 points, Derrick White 18, and Jaylen Brown's 24 as the Boston Celtics won for the seventh time in eight games and for the 10th time in 12 games.
(Clippers guard Paul George pressures Jayson Tatum. Photo by Jonah Breton@Tangent Zine)
The Clippers were without Kawhi Leonard for a second consecutive game, and they clearly miss the Klaw as they lost both games without him following a nine-game winning streak.
(Celtics center Al Horford sets up a screen for Jrue Holiday. Photo by Jonah Breton@Tangent Zine)
When asked about his defense implemented on the Celtics shooters, Clippers coach Tyronn Lue responded: “We were tested a lot". “They lead the league in 3-point attempts and all of their guys can shoot them. Coming into the game, we discussed it. Even when you think they’re not going to shoot it, they’re going to shoot it.”
(Celtics' Jayson Tatum locks in James Harden. Photo by Jonah Breton@Tangent Zine)
The Celtics were without Kristaps Porzingis (left ankle sprain) for the third time in five games. But they still managed to outrebound the Clippers 60-39. Celtics center Neemias Queta had a double-double performance with 14 points and 12 rebounds.
(Celtics center Neemias Queta blocks a shot from Ivica Zubac. Photo by Jonah Breton @Tangent Zine)
With the win, the Celtics now lead the league in standings and will face longtime rivals Los Angeles Lakers on the same arena on Monday, Christmas Day as part of the NBA's holiday showcase.
(LA Clippers forward Daniel Theis slams the ball. Photo by Jonah Breton @Tangent Zine)
Up next for the Clippers will be the Charlotte Hornets on December 26 here at Crypto.Com arena.
All photos taken by Jonah Breton @ Tangent Zine
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