The Boston Celtics are set to face the Toronto Raptors at TD Garden. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on NBC Sports Boston.
Celtics Aim to Secure No. 2 Seed
Boston are in a strong position to clinch the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference. They currently lead New York by 2 ½ games with only five games left on their schedule. The Celtics have recorded back-to-back wins against Miami and Milwaukee this week.
Explosive First Quarters Fuel Celtics’ Wins
The Celtics have been starting games strongly, establishing quick leads in their recent wins. Against the Heat on Wednesday, Boston scored a franchise-record 53 points in the first quarter. They followed this up with 43 points in the opening period of Friday’s win in Milwaukee.
Vucevic’s Potential Return
The Celtics could be returning to full health. Nikola Vucevic is listed as questionable for the first time since fracturing his finger last month.
Raptors Fight to Avoid Play-In Tournament
Toronto are currently battling for a top-six playoff spot. They are aiming to avoid the play-in tournament and lead the seventh-seeded 76ers by half a game.
Queta’s Impact and Tatum’s Praise
Center Neemias Queta played a key role in Boston’s win on Friday. He collected 13 points, five rebounds and three blocked shots in the first quarter. Queta finished the game with 19 points on 8-of-11 shooting, 10 rebounds and four blocks. Celtics’ Jayson Tatum said, “He is an NBA starting big man, that’s who he is now, and he’s only gonna continue to get better.”
- Boston’s season record: 52-25
- Toronto’s season record: 43-34
- Toronto points per game: 114.5, Boston points per game: 114.6
- Toronto points allowed per game: 112.1, Boston points allowed per game: 107.1
Boston had six players score in double figures against the Bucks, marking their 10th victory by at least 25 points this season. After Sunday, the Celtics and Knicks will each have four regular season games to play.