This week’s NBA action sees the Boston Celtics looking to strengthen their grip on the East against a struggling Golden State Warriors side. The Los Angeles Lakers are also aiming to separate themselves from the crowded middle of the West as they take on fellow playoff contender Houston Rockets.
Tatum’s Quick Return Boosts Celtics
Jayson Tatum has quickly settled back into rhythm after a ten-month layoff. He is providing the Celtics with a steady two-way presence. Through five games, Tatum has delivered 20.0 points, 8.2 rebounds and 4.4 assists. The efficiency hasn’t fully caught up yet (50.9 TS%, 27.1% from deep), but the impact is clear.
He’s active on both ends, and Boston has thrived with him on the floor, posting a +14.7 net rating across his 146 minutes. This is an early sign of how valuable he is to their overall structure. Facing a Warriors squad missing Stephen Curry, this matchup gives Tatum another runway to build momentum. Alongside Jaylen Brown, this is where the Celtics can start sharpening the core that will carry their hopes for a deep postseason run.
Dončić Dominates as Lakers Surge
The Lakers have surged to the top of the league in March. They have posted an 8-1 record while owning the third-best net rating in that span at +10.0. At the center of that run is Luka Dončić, whose all-around brilliance has powered the Lakers offense and elevated their late-season push.
Dončić has been in full control, orchestrating the Lakers’ attack with a blend of scoring and playmaking. This month, the six-time All-Star is putting up 34.0 points, 7.2 rebounds and 9.1 assists on an elite 62.1 TS%. Whether it’s breaking down defenders in isolation, manipulating pick-and-roll coverages or creating open looks for teammates, he has dictated tempo and consistently put defenses in rotation.
Lakers Look to Extend Winning Streak
As the Lakers push to secure homecourt advantage in the first round, another win over the Rockets this week would create valuable separation in the standings. Expect Dončić to keep driving the offense, with strong support from Austin Reaves and LeBron James, as they take on a Rockets squad led by Kevin Durant.
These are must-watch games.