Celtics Show Championship Form In Win Over Cavaliers

Cleveland Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley (4) shoots as Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) defends in the first half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/S

The Boston Celtics showcased their championship pedigree as they secured a hard-fought 112-105 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in a highly anticipated matchup between two Eastern Conference powerhouses. Led by Jayson Tatum's 22 points and Derrick White's 20-point contribution, the Celtics demonstrated composure and resilience down the stretch to emerge victorious.

Despite a valiant effort from the Cavaliers, who were paced by Donovan Mitchell's 31 points and Darius Garland's 25-point performance, the defending NBA champions proved to be too much to handle for Cleveland. Jaylen Brown chipped in with 16 points and nine rebounds for the Celtics, who extended their winning streak to four games.

Jayson Tatum leads Celtics with 22 points, Derrick White adds 20 points

Boston Celtics showcase championship pedigree in hard-fought victory

Donovan Mitchell scores 31 points, Darius Garland contributes 25 for Cavaliers

Jaylen Brown records 16 points and nine rebounds for Celtics

Kristaps Porzingis' 19 points pose matchup problems for Cavaliers

Cavaliers struggle with 28% shooting from three-point range

Evan Mobley scores 7 points on return from injury for Cavaliers

Derrick White's clutch baskets help Celtics secure win

Celtics improve to 2-1 against Cavaliers this season

Both teams look to continue pursuit of playoff positioning in Eastern Conference

One of the key factors in Boston's success was the presence of Kristaps Porzingis, who added 19 points to the winning cause. Porzingis' size and skillset posed significant matchup problems for the Cavaliers, who struggled to contain the 7-foot-3 forward throughout the game.

While the Cavaliers fought admirably, they were unable to overcome their early shooting woes, starting just 1 of 14 from beyond the arc. Cleveland finished the game shooting 28% from three-point range, a stark contrast to their usual sharpshooting prowess.

Despite a subpar performance from All-Star Evan Mobley, who managed just 7 points on 3 of 14 shooting, the Cavaliers remain a formidable force in the Eastern Conference. Mobley, who recently returned from a calf injury, will look to regain his form as Cleveland continues its quest for postseason success.

The Celtics' ability to execute in critical moments proved to be the difference-maker, as Derrick White's clutch baskets down the stretch helped Boston maintain control of the game. With the win, the Celtics improved to 2-1 against the Cavaliers this season and solidified their position as one of the top teams in the East.

Looking ahead, Boston will face the Dallas Mavericks in their next game, while the Cavaliers are set to take on the Detroit Pistons. Both teams will aim to build on their recent performances and continue their pursuit of playoff positioning in the competitive Eastern Conference.

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