Boston CelticsOpen full analysis
Portland Trail BlazersOpen full analysis
Portland defeated Boston 114–108 on December 28 at the Moda Center, holding the Celtics to their lowest offensive output while staying well below the 231.5 Vegas total. Sharpe led the Trail Blazers with 26 points and was supported by Avdija's 24 points as Portland shot 47.2% from the field and drained 18 three-pointers. Brown's 37 points kept Boston competitive, but the Celtics managed just 44% shooting and hit only 13 threes, a significant discrepancy that proved decisive. Portland's defense clamped down in the third quarter, outscoring Boston 31–22 to seize control after a competitive first half. The Trail Blazers' 111.5 offensive rating and stingy 101.5 defensive rating reflected their balanced approach, while Boston's 39 rebounds and 13 steals couldn't overcome their offensive inefficiency and 19 turnovers. The second quarter saw Boston surge with 33 points to keep pace, but Portland's ability to limit the Celtics' rhythm in the second half proved the difference. This victory positions Portland as a legitimate contender in the Western Conference race.
