The Celtics on a winning streak are stepping up as they prepare to face the Nets next.
After wrapping up their game against the Miami Heat, the Boston Celtics swiftly shifted focus, acknowledging Jaylen Brown’s physicality during an exchange with Duncan Robinson in the fourth quarter. Following two tight victories that tested their resilience, the Celtics aim to extend their winning streak to five games as they face the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday night. Having won 15 of their last 21 games since a six-game streak from December 20 to 31, the Celtics seek their fifth five-game streak of the season. Their current run began with a commanding 40-point victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on February 4, followed by wins against the Atlanta Hawks, Washington Wizards, and Heat, with a combined margin of 18 points. Despite surviving a late comeback from the Wizards in a 133-129 win on Friday, the Celtics maintained their streak with a 110-106 victory over Miami on Sunday, where they held a significant lead before Brown’s collision with Robinson. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla praised the team’s composed response to physical play, emphasizing the importance of rising to the occasion and meeting expectations. Alongside their late-game poise, the Celtics benefited from an efficient offense, shooting over 50% and making 16 3-pointers. Jayson Tatum led with 26 points, averaging 28.8 points during the winning streak, while Kristaps Porzingis contributed 25 points, averaging 29 in the same period. The Celtics have a dominant record against the Nets, winning 12 of their last 13 meetings, including a four-game playoff sweep in 2022. They also boast a seven-game winning streak in Brooklyn, with Tatum’s 32-point performance securing a 124-114 victory on November 4. Meanwhile, the Nets, featuring new addition Dennis Schroder, seek momentum after a 123-103 win over the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday. Schroder impressed in his debut, notching 15 points and 12 assists, including a highlight-reel alley-oop to Nic Claxton.