Rockets Dominate Celtics with 128-101 Victory at TD Garden

The Boston Celtics faced a challenging setback on March 2, 2024, as they succumbed to the **Houston Rockets**, losing 128-101 at **TD Garden**. This defeat ended a three-game winning streak for the Celtics, who had shown competitive spirit in their previous matches. Despite their efforts, the team struggled against a well-rested Rockets squad that had not played since Wednesday.

Celtics guard **Payton Pritchard** reflected on the game, acknowledging the impact of fatigue. “Maybe we made fatigued decisions on the court and stuff like that,” he stated. “We came ready to play, but we got popped tonight. Move on and get ready for the next one.” The Celtics had just edged the **Philadelphia 76ers** in a thrilling encounter the night prior, but their energy levels were clearly tested against a formidable opponent.

The Rockets dominated every quarter, outscoring the Celtics and showcasing their prowess on both ends of the court. They claimed a significant **53-36 advantage in rebounds** and attempted **35 free throws** compared to Boston’s seven. Houston’s three-point shooting was particularly impressive, hitting **65.5%** of their attempts, marking the highest percentage by a Celtics opponent this season.

Celtics head coach **Joe Mazzulla** made adjustments during the game, utilizing his bench early in the fourth quarter. Players like **Baylor Scheierman** and **Jordan Walsh** received extended minutes, with Scheierman emerging as a standout, scoring **17 points** and contributing significantly to the team’s efforts. Mazzulla acknowledged the Rockets’ performance, stating, “Rockets played well, good team, well-coached. They were prepared, and this wasn’t our night tonight.”

Despite the loss, the Celtics look to regroup with upcoming home games against the **Utah Jazz** and the **Washington Wizards** this week. The team has faced a tricky schedule in the opening weeks of the season, which included back-to-back games and extensive travel. Mazzulla emphasized the importance of bouncing back, saying, “It’ll be more important about how we respond on Monday at shootaround and in the game.”

In addition to the game, discussions surrounding the recovery of Celtics star **Jayson Tatum** from an Achilles injury have gained traction. **Kevin Durant**, who overcame a similar injury, expressed optimism about Tatum’s rehabilitation progress. “Jayson looks like he’s just killing the rehab, and he looks great,” Durant noted. “Hopefully, he continues to progress and gets better soon. The game misses him, the NBA misses him.”

Tatum’s recovery timeline remains uncertain, but Durant indicated that the possibility of a return this season is feasible. “He’s just taking it day by day,” Durant added. “It’s cool to keep it open, I guess, to play, and he just loves to play, man.”

The Celtics have also faced challenges with their shooting performance. Pritchard and fellow guard **Derrick White** have taken on larger offensive roles in Tatum’s absence but are struggling with their three-point shooting. After seven games, White has managed just **25.0%** shooting from beyond the arc, while Pritchard’s percentage is even lower at **17.8%**. This lack of production from the perimeter has placed additional pressure on the team.

As the Celtics prepare for their next matchups, they will need to address these performance issues while remaining focused on Tatum’s recovery. The outcome of their upcoming games could significantly impact their trajectory in the season ahead.