Celtics Defeat Raptors Despite Missing Key Players, Extend Winning Streak

TORONTO — The Boston Celtics secured their sixth consecutive victory by defeating the Toronto Raptors 111-101 on Tuesday night, despite being without several key players, including Jrue Holiday, who was listed as out for rest.

Holiday, 34, has missed 11 games this season due to various ailments but is now being rested to ensure he remains fresh for the approaching postseason. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla noted, “When he’s at his best, he gets a break, but he would also play 82 because of his competitive nature.”

In his absence, Derrick White emerged as a pivotal player, contributing 22 points, five assists, and three steals. White’s performance was crucial for the Celtics, who were also without Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford. Jaylen Brown led the team with 24 points, while Payton Pritchard came off the bench to add 20 points.

After missing four games before the All-Star break due to a sore shoulder, Holiday expressed understanding of the team’s decision to rest him, stating, “I feel solid… and I think being out [Tuesday night] and being able to manage that is the best thing.”

Mazzulla expressed confidence in his team’s ability to maintain consistency, reflecting on the importance of addressing past shortcomings. “We’ve done some things really well… [but] there were 10, 12, 15 possessions we have to get better at,” he said.

The Celtics faced challenges beyond their absences, with Luke Kornet also sitting out for personal reasons and Porzingis remaining doubtful due to illness. Neemias Queta, who had missed a game due to illness, was available, though he acknowledged the adjustment of watching from home.

The Raptors were missing center Jakob Poeltl due to a hip pointer, which has affected their performance over the season. Toronto recently acquired Brandon Ingram, who is also sidelined with an injury.

Following their victory in Toronto, the Celtics will attempt to extend their winning streak to seven games against the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night.