Even though the Celtics knew it wouldn't be easy without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, they were aware that the first home game after a long road trip can be tough. They also acknowledged that the Thunder's success isn't solely because of one player.
The Thunder tested the boundaries as expected for three quarters, challenging the Celtics physically. However, in the fourth quarter, the Celtics once again demonstrated their superior firepower.
Despite not performing well for most of the game and being sloppy at times, the Celtics displayed their unique ability to overcome imperfections. They were able to shift gears quickly and pull away for a 135-100 victory over the Thunder, fueled by a dominant fourth quarter.
Kristaps Porzingis scored 27 points with 12 rebounds and five blocks, while Jaylen Brown overcame a slow start to score 23 points, including 15 in the fourth quarter, to secure the win. The victory clinched the Celtics' top seed in the NBA, ensuring them home-court advantage throughout the playoffs, which was a significant goal for them. They approached Wednesday's game with a playoff mindset and a sense of urgency.
Mazzulla emphasized the importance of not taking the achievement for granted and expressed gratitude for it. He underscored the rarity and difficulty of achieving this position and stressed the team's focused approach to the game.
Mazzulla mentioned the need to savor the victory before emphasizing that it is essential to stay grounded and focused moving forward.
Horford added that the team was determined to stay focused and handle their business with a strong mindset.
Horford, who scored 16 points off the bench, was not pleased with the team's intensity at the start of the game, noting that they were a bit slow. Despite initially taking a strong lead, the Celtics struggled to put the Thunder away.
The Celtics encountered difficulty defending without fouling, committing nine fouls in the third quarter. Although Oklahoma City narrowed the lead, the Celtics managed to withstand their rallies and regained a 10-point lead entering the fourth quarter. Horford credited Payton Pritchard's energy for changing the game's momentum.
At that point, the Celtics accelerated.
Brown, who initially struggled with his shooting, led the Celtics to a game-sealing run in the final period. Within the first four minutes, he scored seven points and assisted Jrue Holiday for a corner 3-pointer, forcing a timeout from the Thunder as the Celtics led by 16.
Al Horford said it was important for the team to start strong and elevate their game to another level after making the opposing team call a timeout.
The Celtics dominated the game by making more defensive stops, scoring more 3-pointers, and going on a 25-7 run at the beginning of the fourth quarter. Despite his earlier struggles on offense, Brown contributed defensively and helped the team extend their lead to 28 points by midway through the fourth.
The Celtics played with great efficiency and the Thunder couldn't find a way to respond. The Celtics sealed their victory with a 42-17 score in the final period, allowing Jayson Tatum to rest for the last 12 minutes.
Kristaps Porzingis expressed the team's desire to feel unbeatable when they elevate their game in crucial moments, and they achieved that level during the game.
The team aims to maintain their performance going into the playoffs, especially now that they have secured home-court advantage, which they consider a crucial asset in their pursuit of a championship.
Kristaps Porzingis believes the team has earned the home-court advantage by consistently working hard throughout the season and winning games. He emphasized the importance of staying committed to their vision for success.
