Celtics Edge Clippers in Thrilling 121-118 Victory

BOSTON, Massachusetts — The Boston Celtics held off a fierce comeback from the Los Angeles Clippers to secure a 121-118 victory at TD Garden on Sunday. The win improved the Celtics to 7-7 for the season, while the Clippers fell to 4-9.

Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 33 points and 13 rebounds, contributing to their second consecutive victory. Payton Pritchard added 30 points off the bench, while Derrick White recorded 22 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists. The Celtics initially built a 24-point lead before nearly squandering it in the final quarter.

James Harden kept the Clippers in contention, scoring 32 of his 37 points in the second half. He was instrumental in narrowing the deficit as the game progressed, finishing the night with nine rebounds and two assists. Despite his efforts, Harden’s last-second three-point attempt did not find the net, sealing the Clippers’ fate.

The game took a turn during the second quarter, when Clippers forward Derrick Jones Jr. suffered a knee injury after colliding with Brown. He was assisted off the court and did not return. Additionally, Jordan Miller exited the game due to left hamstring soreness after recently recovering from a previous injury.

The Celtics unleashed a strong start, leading 63-49 at halftime. They continued to dominate early in the second half before the Clippers made a significant effort to close the gap. As the fourth quarter progressed, Harden’s scoring helped the Clippers pull within striking distance, but key plays from the Celtics, including a clutch three-pointer from White, ensured the victory.

Next, the Clippers will face the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday, continuing their challenging seven-game road trip. The Celtics will head to Brooklyn for their next matchup on Tuesday.