Kornet Anchors Celtics’ Defense
With Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis out, Luke Kornet made a significant impact for the Boston Celtics against the Miami Heat in their 108-89 victory. Beginning at center, Kornet matched his career-high by recording six blocks, spearheading Boston’s top defensive performance of the season. His presence contributed to limiting Bam Adebayo to 6-of-18 shooting, establishing an early tone with a strip-block and asserting control at the rim during the game.
“When he competes with that intensity, it transforms our team,” head coach Joe Mazzulla commended after the game.
Luke Kornet, with nine blocks in his past 32 minutes, attributes his enhanced physicality and concentration against Miami Heat. “I’ve been striving to enhance my presence on defense,” Kornet said. “I believe it’s something our team requires from one game to the next.”
Pritchard Stays Hot
On the offensive end, Payton Pritchard maintained his scorching performance, tallying 25 points. This was his fourth consecutive game scoring over 20 points, setting a career-high streak. In Celtics history, only Kevin McHale and Larry Bird have recorded longer bench streaks.
Pritchard tops all NBA reserves with 345 points and 78 three-pointers in this season. “His performance has been outstanding,” remarked Jaylen Brown, who contributed 29 points. “When he performs well, it enhances our team’s quality.”
Team Effort Sparks Win
Kornet’s defensive rim presence and Pritchard’s offensive contributions showcased a total team effort. The Celtics kept Miami below 90 points for the first time since Game 5 of the 2024 Finals, demonstrating their defensive capabilities.
With Kornet and Pritchard flourishing in their positions, Boston Celtics demonstrated their ability to adjust and succeed despite injuries, reaffirming their place as a leading contender.
Kornet Anchors Celtics’ Defense
With Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis out, Luke Kornet made a significant impact for the Boston Celtics against the Miami Heat in their 108-89 victory. Beginning at center, Kornet matched his career-high by recording six blocks, spearheading Boston’s top defensive performance of the season. His presence contributed to limiting Bam Adebayo to 6-of-18 shooting, establishing an early tone with a strip-block and asserting control at the rim during the game.
“When he competes with that intensity, it transforms our team,” head coach Joe Mazzulla commended after the game.
Luke Kornet, with nine blocks in his past 32 minutes, attributes his enhanced physicality and concentration against Miami Heat. “I’ve been striving to enhance my presence on defense,” Kornet said. “I believe it’s something our team requires from one game to the next.”
Pritchard Stays Hot
On the offensive end, Payton Pritchard maintained his scorching performance, tallying 25 points. This was his fourth consecutive game scoring over 20 points, setting a career-high streak. In Celtics history, only Kevin McHale and Larry Bird have recorded longer bench streaks.
Pritchard tops all NBA reserves with 345 points and 78 three-pointers in this season. “His performance has been outstanding,” remarked Jaylen Brown, who contributed 29 points. “When he performs well, it enhances our team’s quality.”
Team Effort Sparks Win
Kornet’s defensive rim presence and Pritchard’s offensive contributions showcased a total team effort. The Celtics kept Miami below 90 points for the first time since Game 5 of the 2024 Finals, demonstrating their defensive capabilities.
With Kornet and Pritchard flourishing in their positions, Boston Celtics demonstrated their ability to adjust and succeed despite injuries, reaffirming their place as a leading contender.
