Boston CelticsOpen full analysis
Indiana PacersOpen full analysis
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.
