Image source: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images | AP Photo/David Zalubowski
The Boston Celtics closed their West Coast road trip with a tough 103-84 loss to the Denver Nuggets, finishing the swing with a solid 3-1 record.
But despite the winning trip overall, the defeat ended Boston’s hopes of reaching the “40-20” milestone this season.
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On the second night of a back-to-back, Joe Mazzulla watched his team struggle to score at every level.
The Celtics couldn’t get consistent looks at the rim, from mid-range, or beyond the three-point line.
After the game, Joe Mazzulla gave a blunt and detailed breakdown of what went wrong.
Joe Mazzulla admitted that the issues went far beyond a handful of plays. Speaking via CLNS Media, he said Boston usually reviews 10 to 15 key possessions after games, but this time the number could be closer to 30. He added that how the team prepares for its next matchup will reveal how well it learned from this loss.
Joe Mazzulla pointed to Denver’s physical defense as a major factor in the loss.
He explained that Denver set the tone with its toughness on the perimeter. He noted that the Nuggets mixed up their defensive matchups effectively, but what stood out most was their physical pressure on the ball and the way they consistently disrupted Boston’s offense.
Fatigue appeared to play a role late in the road trip.
Joe Mazzulla’s squad looked a step slow, especially when fighting for rebounds.
Although Boston’s rebounding has improved in recent months, the Celtics lost the battle 54-48.
They also allowed 23 second-chance points, including 14 offensive rebounds by Denver.
Those extra possessions proved costly.
The Nuggets capitalized on Boston’s mistakes and controlled the game’s momentum.
Denver scored 14 points off turnovers and added 42 points in the paint.
They also disrupted passing lanes, finishing with 17 deflections compared to Boston’s 11.
The Nuggets dictated the tempo from the opening tip.
They created quality shots even when the Celtics’ defense forced tough situations.
Joe Mazzulla emphasized that preparation will now be the focus.
How the team responds in practice could shape its performance moving forward.
Boston returns home to face the Brooklyn Nets on Friday, Feb. 27.
The Celtics currently lead the season series against Brooklyn 2-1.
With a full day of rest and the comfort of playing at home, Joe Mazzulla hopes his team can reset.
After being outplayed in Denver, the message is clear — small mistakes add up quickly against elite competition.
Now, Joe Mazzulla and the Celtics will look to regroup and protect their home floor.
FAQ:
Why did the Boston Celtics lose to the Denver Nuggets?
The Boston Celtics struggled offensively and were outworked in key areas during the 103-84 loss to the Denver Nuggets. Denver dominated the rebounding battle 54-48, scored 23 second-chance points, and controlled the tempo throughout the game.
What did Joe Mazzulla say after the loss?
Joe Mazzulla admitted that the problems went beyond just a few possessions. He pointed to physical defense from Denver, missed opportunities, and the need for better preparation heading into the next game.
How did rebounding impact the game?
Rebounding played a major role in the outcome. The Nuggets grabbed 14 offensive rebounds and turned them into second-chance opportunities, which helped them build and maintain momentum.
How many points did the Nuggets score in the paint?
Denver scored 42 points in the paint, consistently attacking the rim and taking advantage of defensive breakdowns by Boston.
Did turnovers hurt the Celtics?
Yes. The Nuggets scored 14 points off Celtics turnovers. Denver also recorded 17 deflections, disrupting Boston’s passing lanes and offensive flow.
What was the Celtics’ record on the West Coast road trip?
Despite the loss, the Celtics finished their West Coast road trip with a 3-1 record.
Who do the Celtics play next?
The Boston Celtics will head back home for a matchup against the Brooklyn Nets on Friday, Feb. 27. Boston holds a 2-1 edge in the season series entering the game.
Did the loss affect Boston’s milestone goals?
Yes. The defeat ended Boston’s chance to reach the “40-20” milestone this season.
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