Nuggets put an end to incredible Celtics streak
Apr 23, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) warms up before game four of the 2023 NBA Playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports
The Boston Celtics’ record-breaking home winning streak came to an end Friday at the hands of the Denver Nuggets.
The Nuggets dealt the Celtics their first loss at TD Garden in Boston, Mass. this season in a gritty 102-100 affair between two top contenders.
Boston entered the contest 20-0 at home — the longest such streak to start the season in the franchise’s storied history. The Celtics had won 27 straight games at home dating back to last season.
The Boston Celtics are 20-0 at home this season, the best start at home in franchise history ☘️ pic.twitter.com/G5PWXrnewG
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 20, 2024
The Nuggets led by two with 4.9 remaining in the contest. With a shot at overtime, Celtics All-Star Jayson Tatum was way off on his midrange attempt as time expired.
NUGGETS END THE CELTICS 20-GAME HOME WINNING STREAK!!!
Boston had won 27 straight home games dating back to last season. pic.twitter.com/8tIqWCFTBl
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) January 20, 2024
The Celtics also had a golden opportunity to preserve their streak in their previous possession. Down one point with about 20 seconds left, Tatum got himself a decent look in transition but flubbed the layup after momentarily losing control of the ball.
Jayson Tatum missed the go-ahead lay-up in the final minute 👀
Now it's Celtics ball, down 2, with 13.4 seconds to go 🍿pic.twitter.com/hYWbf26b9R
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 20, 2024
Nikola Jokic looked like a true 2-time MVP against Boston. The Serbian center tallied 34 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists on 14/22 shooting. Jamal Murray had an even more efficient night from the field than The Joker with 35 points on a 15/21 clip.
Friday’s contest between the Celtics and Nuggets could very well be an NBA Finals preview given the talent on both rosters.