LOS ANGELES — The Boston Celtics imposed their physical style on Sunday afternoon, defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 111-89 at Crypto.com Arena and dimming a day that began with the unveiling of a Pat Riley statue in a private pregame ceremony.
First-half deadlock turns Boston’s way
LeBron James opened the contest with the game’s first four points, and the teams traded baskets throughout an error-filled first quarter that ended tied at 28. Luka Dončić answered Boston’s early three-point shooting by knocking down two triples of his own.
The tone grew chippy in the second period. Jarred Vanderbilt drew a charge and followed with a corner three to momentarily push Los Angeles in front, but a sequence of technical fouls on Austin Reaves and Marcus Smart ignited a 7-0 Celtics run. Boston’s physical approach was largely tolerated by officials, allowing the visitors to carry a 60-50 advantage into halftime.
Hayes exit, cold shooting hamper Lakers
Already searching for offense, Los Angeles lost center Jaxson Hayes to a right ankle injury at the break. The Celtics maintained control in the third quarter, stretching the margin to 84-71 behind late baskets from Payton Pritchard and Jaylen Brown.
Brief push, decisive response
Back-to-back layups by James and Rui Hachimura trimmed the deficit to single digits early in the fourth, but Boston answered immediately and never allowed the Lakers to draw closer. The Celtics rebuilt a comfortable cushion and coasted to the final horn.
Stat line and schedule
Boston’s win improved its record to 111-89 on the night. Los Angeles will return Tuesday to host the Orlando Magic before traveling for division matchups with the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors.
Source: LakersNation.com
