Celtics Escape Embarrassment Against Clippers’ Scrappy Squad

In a nail-biter against a shorthanded Clippers squad, the Celtics narrowly escaped embarrassment with a 117-113 overtime victory, but this performance left more questions than answers.

Clippers Show Unwavering Fight

Kicking off a back-to-back night, the Clippers rested nearly their entire starting lineup against the Celtics. Key players like Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, Ivica Zubac, and Norman Powell were all absent, leaving the Clippers’ bench to fend for themselves.

On the Celtics’ side, Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, and Kristaps Porzingis were also out, setting the stage for what many thought would be a straightforward victory for Boston.

High Scoring Action

But the Clippers weren’t going down quietly. Right from the tip-off, both teams lit up the scoreboard, with Los Angeles shooting an impressive 60% and Boston not far behind at 65% accuracy. By the end of the first quarter, the Clippers found themselves holding a slim one-point lead, thanks to rookie sensation Jordan Miller making his mark in a big way.

Derrick Jones Jr. with the airborne HAIL MARY to Jordan Miller for the score 😱 pic.twitter.com/CtaAvrsjY0

— NBA TV (@NBATV) January 23, 2025

Celtics Stumble Yet Resilient

While the Clippers showcased their fight, the Celtics struggled to find their rhythm from beyond the arc—a well-known challenge for Boston when their long-range shooting goes cold. At halftime, the Clippers had a surprise lead, reflecting the game’s unexpected dynamics.

Third Quarter Rally

Coming out of the locker room, Kevin Porter Jr. took the reins for LA, scoring 26 points to keep the game competitive, which was surprising given his uneven season so far. However, the fourth quarter saw the Celtics finally kick into gear, launching a blistering 13-0 run that had fans thinking they were about to take control.

But just when it seemed like Boston had flipped the script, the Clippers clawed their way back into the contest. With clutch plays from Derrick Jones Jr., they sent the game into overtime.

Derrick Jones Jr. scored the game-tying basket and then blocked Derrick White’s game-winner attempt.

Overtime. pic.twitter.com/dPMFiqFrXC

— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) January 23, 2025

Celtics Hold On for Victory

The Celtics entered overtime with a vendetta, exploding for a quick 6-0 run to put the Clippers on their back foot. However, Los Angeles responded yet again, refusing to drown in the pressure.

A clutch three-pointer by Jaden Springer gave Boston a late five-point cushion, raising hopes that it was finally the dagger they needed.

HAVE A NIGHT JADEN SPRINGER 🤯 pic.twitter.com/C9VijRZcJ5

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) January 23, 2025

Final Moments

But it wasn’t over yet. Amir Coffey responded with a lay-up and a free throw, narrowing the margin to two points. The Celtics held their composure, executing effectively on their final possessions to seal the 117-113 victory. While Boston may have made it out alive, the Clippers showed they could – and did – rise to the challenge with heart and grit.