Celtics Look to Build Momentum Against Struggling Nets
The Boston Celtics head into Tuesday night’s matchup with the Brooklyn Nets looking to steady their season and gain some momentum after an up-and-down start. Fresh off a hard-earned 121-118 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers, Boston enters the game at 7-7 and is searching for greater consistency. Jaylen Brown once again led the way in that win, continuing his strong early-season form. The Celtics remain 1-3 against Atlantic Division opponents but have performed more confidently in games decided by double digits, where they hold a 4-3 record. Meanwhile, Brooklyn comes in at 2-11 and is riding a six-game home losing streak, giving Boston a clear opportunity to take advantage.
Brooklyn enters the game hoping to snap its extended skid, though the numbers paint a difficult path forward. The Nets rank last in the conference in points in the paint, averaging only 41.7 per game. Their defensive issues have been even more alarming, allowing 121.9 points per game. While Nic Claxton has been a bright spot with averages of 15.2 points, seven rebounds, and 3.9 assists, Brooklyn’s biggest offensive surge has come from Michael Porter Jr., who is averaging 34.0 points over his last 10 games. However, injuries to key rotation players Haywood Highsmith and Cam Thomas further complicate Brooklyn’s hopes of turning its season around.
The Celtics, meanwhile, have a 6-4 record over their last 10 games and are beginning to establish some consistency on both ends of the floor. Jaylen Brown’s offensive explosion continues to define Boston’s early season, as he enters the matchup averaging 27.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. His most recent performance, a 33-point, 13 rebound outing against the Clippers, showed both his resilience and leadership skills. Especially after scoring 13 crucial fourth-quarter points. Even with Brown stating he “didn’t really play that well,” Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla praised the star’s late-game intensity and commitment to winning, highlighting the two steals and defensive presence that helped secure the victory.
With Jayson Tatum still sidelined and not playing, Boston will rely heavily on players like Payton Pritchard, who has averaged an impressive 30.0 points over his last 10 games. The Celtics’ depth will be tested, especially on the road, but the matchup presents a clear opportunity to capitalize on Brooklyn’s weaknesses. Boston holds opponents to just 43.6% shooting from the field, slightly lower than Brooklyn’s season-long average, which they have improved defensively in recent games, allowing just under 110 points per game across their last 10 outings. Maintaining that level of defensive discipline will be key, especially against a Brooklyn team that tends to shoot better at home despite its overall struggles.
Ultimately, Tuesday’s matchup represents a chance for Boston to build real momentum and finally push its record into positive territory. Jaylen Brown’s leadership and elite scoring have kept the Celtics competitive despite inconsistencies and injuries, and a two-game stretch against the Nets offers a crucial window to stabilize their season. Brooklyn, fighting to avoid further collapse, will look to Porter Jr. and Claxton to keep the game competitive while hoping to find a defensive rhythm that has eluded them. For Boston, executing on both ends, protecting the ball, and ensuring support for Brown will be essential in securing a win. If the Celtics can control the pace and exploit Brooklyn’s defensive gaps, they’ll put themselves in a strong position to leave New York with a much-needed victory.
