Boston CelticsAbrir el análisis completo
Indiana PacersAbrir el análisis completo
The Boston Celtics defeated the Indiana Pacers 140–122 on December 26 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, surpassing the Vegas total of 222.5 with a dominant second-quarter performance that proved decisive. Jaylen Brown led Boston with 30 points, while Payton Pritchard added 29 in a balanced offensive attack. The Celtics shot 56.6 percent from the field and made 20 three-pointers, controlling the glass with 43 rebounds against Indiana's 35. Boston's second quarter was particularly telling: the Pacers managed just 22 points while the Celtics poured in 47, establishing a cushion they never relinquished. Andrew Nembhard led Indiana with 18 points, and Bennedict Mathurin contributed 13, but the Pacers' 49.4 percent shooting and 18 three-pointers proved insufficient against Boston's suffocating defense, which posted a 121.0 defensive rating. The Celtics' 26 assists on 140 points reflected efficient ball movement, and their eight steals underscored their perimeter intensity. Boston's second-half control—outscoring Indiana 65–60 in the final two quarters—solidified their Eastern Conference credentials heading into the new year.
