The Boston Celtics were defeated 114-109 in overtime by the Minnesota Timberwolves in a thrilling opening game.
Boston held the early impetus in what was primarily a low-scoring defensive match, but Minnesota appeared to be in control. Back and go, with the Timberwolves seemingly destined to grab the lead on multiple occasions. Although Jayson Tatum scored 32 points late in the game and Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis combined for 46 points, Anthony Edwards was the one who stole the show in the end.
Edwards came down in OT and rose in motion over defenders for multiple daggers to put the Celtics away in his own superstar performance. Though, it was a tough one for Boston that they likely could have had, Joe Mazzulla did not really seem to fret over the loss. Go figure given Boston’s play of late.
“We just have to be able to fight to take away tendencies, I thought that was a hell of a game,” Mazzulla said. “It was a lot of fun, it was very competitive. Our opponents are always gonna bring the best out of us.”
The Celtics’ coach is experienced enough now to not worry about these types of losses early on. He knows this happens, especially in the process of the team gaining chemistry. Boston was going to fall at some point, and they did tonight against Minnesota’s No. 1 defense.
“I thought we competed at a high level, I thought their defensive toughness outmatched our offensive toughness at times,” Mazzulla stated. “But I thought both teams played a really good game for game five of the year.”
On Wednesday night, Boston will play the 76ers again in Philadelphia in an East Semifinal rematch with an opportunity to return back to winning ways. An early race for the top spot.
