Can the Celtics Keep the Momentum Rolling?
The Boston Celtics are on a tear, winning all three games since the All-Star break by double digits. They've navigated the challenges of a West Coast road trip with ease, handling time changes, Denver’s altitude, and the relentless travel schedule. Their final stop is a showdown against the Denver Nuggets before heading back to the Garden.
Team Effort Fuels Success
Boston’s success has been a true team effort, with different players stepping up in each victory. Jaylen Brown dazzled with a triple-double against the Warriors.
Payton Pritchard came off the bench to deliver 30 points and eight assists against the Lakers. In their latest win, Ron Harper Jr. and Neemias Queta took the reins, especially with Brown out and Pritchard struggling.
Facing the Denver Challenge
Tonight, the Celtics face a formidable opponent in the Nuggets, who sit fourth in the Western Conference. Denver, looking to bounce back from a loss to Golden State, will be a tough test, especially after their January upset in Boston without Nikola Jokić.
The Jokić Factor
Nikola Jokić is a force to be reckoned with-arguably the best player in the league. His size, scoring ability, and playmaking make him a nightmare matchup.
The key for Boston will be more about team defense than individual matchups. Queta and Nikola Vučević will need to manage their fouls while trying to contain Jokić.
Jokić’s ability to elevate his teammates is what makes him truly special. Limiting his assists and forcing the Nuggets to create late in the shot clock could tilt the game in Boston’s favor.
Defensive Discipline
Denver thrives on movement, with players like Cam Johnson, Jamal Murray, and Christian Braun constantly cutting. Boston’s wings-Derrick White, Brown (if available), Jordan Walsh, Baylor Scheierman, and Hugo González-must stay disciplined. Any lapse can be costly with Jokić orchestrating the offense.
Starting Strong is Key
A fast start could be crucial for the Celtics. Since the break, they’ve only won the first quarter once, against Golden State.
On a grueling road trip, energy levels can dip, making a strong opening even more important. Denver has shown vulnerabilities early in games, as seen in their loss to the Warriors.
An early lead could allow Boston to manage their energy and control the game flow.
With momentum on their side and a team firing on all cylinders, the Celtics are poised for an exciting showdown in Denver.