Scoreboard
Magic 104, Hawks 98
Celtics 111, Cavaliers 101
Bucks 126, Rockets 106
Thunder 108, Nuggets 94
Clippers 105, Kings 89
What went down
The Cavaliers came into Boston riding a six-game win streak but left with a loss thanks largely to Jaylen Brown’s 34 points. It looks like Brown’s previous hamstring injury is clearly past him now after he played nearly 36 minutes, shot 54.5 percent from the field, knocked down five triples, and pulled down six rebounds. The Celtics also got a huge boost from Robert Williams III and his 21 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists.
The Cavs were one of the teams that have been hit hard with the league’s health and safety protocols and couldn’t come up with enough firepower to match the Celtics. Tacko Fall, a fan favorite in his two years in Boston, even made his start because of Cleveland’s lack of bodies. Darius Garland did all he could with his 28-point effort.
Big-time baller
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander got his second career triple-double, putting up 27 points, 11 rebounds, and 12 assists. He shot 10-of-24 from the field and even though he missed all of his seven attempts from deep, he was a perfect 7-of-7 at the line. More importantly, SGA’s numbers helped give the Thunder the win over the Nuggets.
What he said
Joe Johnson made his return to Boston 20 years later. He was drafted by the Celtics in 2001 and played for half a season before getting traded. After checking in the last two minutes of the game against the Cavaliers, Johnson hit a shot in throwback Iso Joe fashion – a midrange in the teeth of the defense.
“It’s great to be back here 20 years later.”@TheJoeJohnson7 on his first game back in Boston. pic.twitter.com/3Nv8h2CMPP
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) December 23, 2021
Did you see that?
Jordan Nwora delivered an Ankle Breaker of the Year nominee. After embarrassing his defender, he brought more hilarity with his shot celebration.
Don't do 'em like that Jordan!! 🥶 pic.twitter.com/CHPLoqt3XM
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) December 23, 2021
