The Boston Celtics continue to build momentum ahead of the NBA Playoffs, securing their eighth straight win with a 121-111 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday night. The defending champions improved to 55-19, maintaining their spot as one of the league’s top contenders.
Jayson Tatum returned to action after missing Thursday’s win against the Phoenix Suns due to an ankle sprain and delivered a dominant performance, finishing with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists on 45.5% shooting.
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On the other side, San Antonio played without Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox, both sidelined with season-ending injuries. In their absence, the team has leaned on the leadership of veteran point guard Chris Paul, who was acquired during the offseason.
San Antonio Spurs guard Chris Paul (3)Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
Paul, now in his 20th NBA season, reached another historic milestone, moving up to 7th all-time in career starts with 1,305 games played as a starter. After the game, Tatum took to Instagram to send a two-word message to Paul.
“My dawg,” he wrote.
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum sends message to San Antonio Spurs guard Chris Paul.jaytatum0 / Instagram
Paul has been a model of consistency for the Spurs, playing in all 73 games this season while averaging 8.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 7.6 assists in 28.1 minutes per game. As he continues his quest for his first NBA championship, the 12-time All-Star has further solidified his legacy as one of the game’s greatest point guards.
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Looking ahead, the Spurs will face the Golden State Warriors on Sunday, while the Celtics aim for their ninth straight victory when they take on the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night.
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