The Boston Celtics defeated the Phoenix Suns 97-81 without star Jaylen Brown, who sat out due to a knee contusion. Despite some struggles, Derrick White led the team with 22 points and the Celtics showcased strong contributions from Neemias Queta and Baylor Scheierman. After falling behind early, Boston executed a dominant 50-11 run, overwhelming the Suns, who were missing top scorers Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks. This marked the Celtics' fourth consecutive win by double digits, keeping them in strong performance on their West Coast road trip.

By the Numbers
  • Derrick White: 22 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists
  • Celtics' run: 50-11 surge from midway through the second quarter to late in the third
  • Celtics' rebounding: 22 offensive boards compared to Suns' 9
Yes, But

While the Celtics displayed resilience without Brown, Pritchard's poor performance raised concerns as he struggled with shooting accuracy and turnovers. This prompts questions about the team's depth and reliance on key players during critical moments.

State of Play
  • The Celtics remain perfect on their West Coast trip with a 4-0 record.
  • They sit at 38-19, aiming for a notable milestone of 40 wins and 20 losses.
What's Next

The Celtics will face the Denver Nuggets next, a significant matchup that could further solidify their standing as a top team in the league.

Bottom Line

The Celtics’ ability to maintain dominance without key players underscores their depth and adaptability, vital traits for championship contenders.