In a classic “get-right” game, Boston bounces back from a tough loss to Philadelphia with a dominant wire-to-wire victory, highlighted by Derrick White’s resurgent shooting and a focus on feeding the big men.
BOSTON — Twenty-four hours after a gut-wrenching loss in Philadelphia, the Boston Celtics returned to the friendly confines of TD Garden and did exactly what a contender is supposed to do: they took care of business. Facing a weary Memphis Grizzlies team, the Celtics delivered a 131-95 beatdown that was as much about routine execution as it was about statement-making.
The energy in the building reflected a matchup between two teams on the second night of a back-to-back—lacking the typical regular-season intensity. Yet, within the victory, several key developments emerged that could signal positive trends for the Celtics moving forward.
Derrick White Rediscovers His Stroke
Memphis Grizzlies v Boston Celtics
The most welcome sight for the Celtics had to be the return of Derrick White’s three-point shot. The All-Defensive guard, who entered the game shooting a uncharacteristically cold 28% from deep this season, looked like his old self from the opening tip.
White confidently sank his first three-point attempt and never looked back, finishing the night with 20 points on 3-of-6 shooting from beyond the arc. His overall line—20 points, five rebounds, four assists, two steals, and a block—was a comprehensive reminder of the two-way force he can be when his shot is falling. For a Celtics team that relies on his spacing and secondary playmaking, the return of his shooting swagger is a major boost.
A Conscientious Effort to Feed the Bigs
After a game against the 76ers where open rolls to the basket by the centers were often ignored, the Celtics made a clear point to involve their big men against Memphis. Neemias Queta was the primary beneficiary, frequently finding himself on the receiving end of passes, particularly from Payton Pritchard, as he dove to the rim.
The result was a perfect night for Queta: 13 points on a pristine 6-of-6 from the field, complemented by eight rebounds. His chemistry with Pritchard was on full display, including a first-half alley-oop that energized the bench. Luka Garza also capitalized on the inside focus, adding 14 efficient points of his own. This intentionality to exploit the interior is a simple but effective adjustment that opens up the entire offense.
Jordan Walsh’s Journey to the Starting Lineup
The narrative of Jordan Walsh’s November continued its upward trajectory as the third-year forward earned his first start of the season. While his stat line—seven points and six rebounds in 18 minutes—was solid, it was his energetic, chaotic defense that set the tone early.
Walsh’s first sequence showcased his potential: he hustled back to block a shot from Jaren Jackson Jr. and immediately sprinted the length of the floor for a transition layup. His promotion from healthy scratch to starter in a matter of weeks is a testament to his work ethic and the value of his defensive versatility.
In a game that lacked playoff-level intensity, the Celtics efficiently checked the necessary boxes. They managed a letdown spot after an emotional loss, reintegrated a key shooter into the offensive flow, and established a better inside-out balance. For a team with championship aspirations, it was a professional, workmanlike response.