Boston CelticsOpen full analysis
Sacramento KingsOpen full analysis
The Boston Celtics defeated the Sacramento Kings 120–106 on January 1, 2026, at Golden 1 Center, staying well below the Vegas total of 229.5 points. Jaylen Brown led Boston with 29 points while Derrick DeRozan paced Sacramento with 25 in a defensive-minded contest. The Celtics shot 50.6 percent from the field and made 17 three-pointers compared to the Kings' 12, while Boston's 40 rebounds and 25 assists showcased balanced ball movement. Sacramento's second quarter kept them competitive—they scored 32 points—but a dominant fourth quarter from Boston (32 points) sealed the outcome. The Celtics' defensive rating of 114.5 proved superior to Sacramento's 117.7 offensive rating, and their eight steals and six blocks limited the Kings' scoring opportunities. Boston's second-half surge, particularly the decisive fourth quarter, demonstrated their ability to close games methodically, while Sacramento's 18-point fourth quarter showed offensive stagnation down the stretch. The victory strengthens Boston's positioning in the Eastern Conference standings.
