- 13 Straight for OKC, Celtics Edge Wolves
- Despite Missing Stars, Celtics Grind Out Win; Thunder's Streak Hits 13
- Thunder's Historic Streak Reaches 13 with Win Over Clippers
The Oklahoma City Thunder continued their electrifying run, stretching the NBA's best win streak to 13 games with a convincing home victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. Meanwhile, the reigning champion Boston Celtics, despite missing key players, gritted out a tough road win against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Thunder Storm Past Clippers
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was once again the catalyst for Oklahoma City, leading the charge with 29 points and 8 assists in their 116-98 triumph. The Thunder, now boasting a league-best 28-5 record, showcased their dominance with a stifling defense and explosive third-quarter performance, outscoring the Clippers 42-20.
"We wanted to come out and just pick up the pressure," said Isaiah Hartenstein, who contributed 11 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists for the Thunder. "We weren't playing the way we wanted, with the force we wanted. We wanted to pressure them and I think we did a good job of that."
This impressive streak marks the longest for the franchise since relocating from Seattle in 2008, a testament to the team's growth and determination.
Celtics Survive in Minnesota
Despite missing Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis due to injuries, the Boston Celtics demonstrated their championship mettle with a hard-fought 118-115 victory over the Timberwolves. Jayson Tatum stepped up in their absence, delivering 33 points, 8 rebounds, and 9 assists.
"No JB. No KP. We've had a rough stretch this last eight or nine games," Tatum acknowledged. "So this January we're going to try to turn it around and get back to our identity."
The Celtics overcame a late surge by the Timberwolves, who were fueled by Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo. A crucial missed 3-pointer by Edwards at the buzzer sealed the win for Boston.
"Just had to stick with it," Tatum said of Boston's defensive effort. "They were hitting some tough shots. You've got to live with something, can't take everything away. Stick to the game plan, compete."
Other Notable Games:
- Pacers overpower Heat: Tyrese Haliburton led the Indiana Pacers to a 128-115 victory over the Miami Heat with a stellar performance of 33 points and 15 rebounds.
- Nets edge out Bucks: A balanced scoring effort led by Cameron Johnson and Cam Thomas propelled the Brooklyn Nets to a 113-110 win over the Milwaukee Bucks, despite a strong showing from Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The Celtics continue their challenging road trip with upcoming games against Houston, Oklahoma City, and Denver, while the Thunder look to extend their winning streak and solidify their position atop the Western Conference.
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