Down their two best floor generals, the Boston Celtics came into State Farm Arena hoping to build off their positive momentum nonetheless.
Boston hit first, jumping out to a five-point lead. They quickly found a game opponent, though, as Atlanta responded with a nine-point run of their own.
The game was closer than the two team’s record might suggest, with the Hawks leading much of the contest until Boston began to pull away in third quarter.
Atlanta would come back hard to start the final quarter, cutting the lead to 103-101 with six minutes remaining on a Kevin Huerter jump shot. The Hawks would stay close for the rest of the game, but couldn’t quite get over the hump, Boston taking the 123-115 win on the road.
The Celtics were led by forward Jayson Tatum’s 28 points (on 10-of-20 shooting including 5-of-9 from three) and 7 rebounds, and swingman Gordon Hayward’s 24 points, 7 boards and 6 assists.
East Player of the Week Jaylen Brown added 21 points and 5 rebounds, and reserve center Brad Wanamaker had a 16-point, 5-assist, 4-steal outing off the bench. Even rookie Grant Williams had an excellent night with 13 points, 6 rebounds and 2 blocks.
Atlanta saw a huge night from All-Star point guard Trae Young with 34 points and 7 assists with 23 points from shooting guard Kevin Huerter, and point guard Jeff Teague added 18 points, 6 assists and 4 steals.
Forward John Collins logged 22 points and 11 boards as well.
The Boston Celtics next face the Orlando Magic at TD Garden at 7:30pm ET on Wednesday, February 3rd.
