NBA roundup: Celtics cruise past Raptors, while Bucks stage thrilling comeback to defeat Pacers

The Milwaukee Bucks overcame a 19-point deficit, ultimately defeating the Indiana Pacers 120-112 on Tuesday, while the NBA champion Boston Celtics concluded 2024 with a commanding 125-71 victory over the Toronto Raptors.

In Boston, the game lacked late tension, as the Celtics achieved their second-largest victory margin in franchise history, surpassed only by a 56-point win against Chicago in December 2018.

Jayson Tatum was instrumental, scoring 18 of his 23 points during the third quarter, in which the Celtics outscored the Raptors 45-18, effectively sealing the game.

Payton Pritchard contributed 19 points off the bench, with seven Celtics players reaching double figures in scoring.

Derrick White added 16 points and recorded four blocks, while Jrue Holiday, returning after a three-game absence due to a shoulder injury, contributed 14 points and three steals.

Jaylen Brown finished with 12 points and nine rebounds, helping the Celtics end the year positively after losing four of their last six games.

The Celtics successfully made 22 of their 43 attempts from beyond the arc and shot 54 percent overall, handing the Raptors their 11th consecutive loss.

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla remarked that the significant win is part of their ongoing journey as they aim to defend their championship title.

"I believe the team's greatest strength lies in their mindset, understanding our current position and our goals for improvement, regardless of the outcome," he stated.

"There are still areas we need to refine... we must continue to strive for betterment."

Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, returning after a three-game absence due to illness, found his form after a slow start, finishing with 30 points and 12 rebounds.

Brook Lopez contributed 16 points, while bench players Bobby Portis Jr. and Gary Trent Jr. each added 14 points for Milwaukee, who were down 83-64 midway through the third quarter.

Damian Lillard, despite scoring only nine points, secured the lead for the Bucks with a pivotal three-pointer that made the score 107-104 with 5:17 left in the game.

Antetokounmpo assisted Portis with a layup, while Trent contributed two three-pointers, enabling the Bucks to extend their lead.

SportsLigue