The Celtics beat the Kawhi-less Clippers 117-112 to win their 3rd straight game. Right before the game tipped off, it was announced that Kawhi Leonard was replaced in the starting lineup. Moments later, they also announced that Kawhi would miss the game due to back spasms. It was a very good game between two extremely good teams. Paul George had a great first half, but kind of went silent in the 2nd half. Reggie Jackson got the start in place of Kawhi and played amazing. Jayson Tatum struggled tonight, but Kemba Walker and Jaylen Brown each played great which helped Boston to the win. Off the bench, Payton Pritchard and Robert Williams were amazing. They combined for 27 points on 9-13 shooting and some incredible lobs.
STAR OF THE GAME
He may not have the most points among both teams, but there is no denying that Robert Williams was absolutely key to the Celtics win tonight. Robert Williams has had an up and down start to his career, but there was never a doubt that the talent was there. This year, it seems like he is finally starting to put all the pieces together. Tonight he blocked shots, grabbed big rebounds, had some great dunks, and he played great defense. He finished with 13 points on 4-5 shooting to go along with 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 blocks. Most people believe he is the Celtics center of the future. If he plays like he has recently, it is going to be very tough to argue against that.
BIGGEST CONCERN
If I am the Clippers, my biggest concern has to be health. Kawhi missed the game tonight with back spasms and hopefully those don’t linger. Also, halfway through the game, Marcus Morris got hit in the back of the head with an accidental elbow by Jaylen Brown. He was ruled out for the game and diagnosed with a concussion. The Clippers ultimate goal is to win their first championship in franchise history. All year long it seems like the Clippers have injury after injury. Clipper fans just need to hope that the injuries stop at some point and they can entire the playoffs hungry and with a completely healthy squad.
SURPRISE CONTRIBUTION
Reggie Jackson’s career has not panned out quite as he had hoped. This year, he is averaging 8.1 PPG and his PPG average has gone down in each of the last 4 years. Tonight, he got the surprise start for the Clippers and played his best game as a Clipper. He had 25 points on 10-14 shooting and he also had 7 assists. Some people have said that the Clippers need a true point guard to be Finals favorites. If Reggie Jackson can play like this every night, the Clippers should definitely be Finals Favorites.
Next Game
Vs Toronto Raptors, Thursday, March 4th at 4:00 PM
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