What's Happening?
The Boston Celtics secured a decisive 140-122 victory against the Indiana Pacers on December 26, 2025, with a remarkable shooting performance. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 30 points, shooting 13 of
20 from the field and making two three-pointers. The Celtics made 20 of 39 three-point attempts, significantly outpacing the Pacers' 18 of 44. Payton Pritchard added 29 points and nine rebounds, while Sam Hauser contributed 23 points, hitting seven of eight from beyond the arc. The Celtics overcame an early 15-point deficit, pulling ahead with a 47-point second quarter. This win marks the Celtics' fourth consecutive victory, improving their record to 19-11.
Why It's Important?
The Celtics' victory is crucial as it extends their winning streak and strengthens their position in the Eastern Conference standings. The team's ability to recover from an early deficit and dominate with three-point shooting demonstrates their offensive prowess and depth. For the Pacers, the loss highlights ongoing struggles, as they fall to a 6-25 record. The game underscores the importance of perimeter shooting in modern basketball and the impact of players like Jaylen Brown and Payton Pritchard in leading their team to victory. The Celtics' performance sets a positive tone as they embark on a five-game road trip.
What's Next?
The Celtics will continue their road trip with a game against the Portland Trail Blazers, aiming to extend their winning streak. The Pacers will travel to Miami to face the Heat, seeking to improve their performance and address defensive weaknesses. Both teams will likely focus on strategic adjustments to enhance their competitiveness in upcoming games. The Celtics' continued success could influence playoff positioning, while the Pacers will look to rebuild momentum and improve their standing.
