Celtics Stun Nuggets with Unique Defensive Strategy on Jokic

BOSTON, Mass. — The Boston Celtics took down the Denver Nuggets 110-103 Sunday at TD Garden, employing a defensive strategy that proved highly effective against three-time MVP Nikola Jokic.

Boston’s head coach Joe Mazzulla crafted a game plan that echoed the successful tactics recently used by the Los Angeles Lakers, who held Jokic to just 12 points in their earlier matchup. The Celtics’ defense smothered Jokic, limiting him to 20 points and zero free-throw attempts.

“I don’t think there’s a right answer [to guard Jokic]. I think that was a good game plan, and they did a great job of doing that,” Mazzulla said. “There are different ways to go about it, and you use that as information to pick and choose what works and what doesn’t.”

Sunday’s contest turned pivotal as the Celtics capitalized on their defensive prowess, forcing Jokic into tough shots while limiting his assists and rebounds. In contrast to his extraordinary season averages, Denver’s star struggled under the pressure, illustrating the effectiveness of Boston’s double and triple teams.

Despite a somewhat lackluster performance from key offensive players Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, who combined for 38 points but also 11 turnovers, the Celtics managed to pull off the upset. The win broke a two-game skid and restored the team’s confidence as they push into the latter part of the season.

“It wasn’t efficient shooting, but we got the stops when we needed,” said Mazzulla. “When you can contain a player of Jokic’s caliber, it opens up opportunities for our offense.”

The Celtics face a significant challenge ahead as they prepare to meet the Lakers on March 8. It will be crucial for Mazzulla to apply lessons learned against Jokic as Boston strategizes to confront the historic rivals.

Looking back, the Lakers’ recent success against the Nuggets revealed weaknesses in Denver’s offense, pushing other teams like Boston to explore similar tactics. Denver, led by head coach Michael Malone, will need to adjust their strategy to counteract these defensive schemes effectively.

Jokic, who normally dominates with his versatility, saw a notable drop in touches during the game. The Lakers had already exposed this vulnerability, and it seems like this trend will likely continue, challenging Malone to innovate strategies to utilize Jokic better.

The matchup against the Celtics is sure to be intense, as both teams look to leverage their unique approaches. This could become a defining moment for the Nuggets as they must adapt to rising defensive pressures in preparation for the playoffs.