The Boston Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 119-115 at Staples Center late Friday, behind a strong third quarter and their star Jayson Tatum's 34 points.
Playing without Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart, a 38-20 third quarter by the Celtics gave them a seven-point lead going into the fourth quarter.
Paul George-less Clippers also reacted, Kawhi Leonard scored 28 points, Lou Williams added 18 -- including the final 7 points of his team -- but it was not enough.
The Celtics improved to 12 wins and nine losses, while the Clippers dropped to 17 wins and seven losses.
Indiana Pacers-New Orleans Pelicans: 113-114
Orlando Magic-Chicago Bulls: 123-119
Cleveland Cavaliers-Milwaukee Bucks: 105-123
Brooklyn Nets-Toronto Raptors: 117-123
Oklahoma City Thunder-Minnesota Timberwolves: 103-106
Miami Heat-Washington Wizards: 122-95
Charlotte Hornets-Utah Jazz: 121-138
Phoenix Suns-Detroit Pistons: 109-92
Los Angeles Clippers-Boston Celtics: 115-119
