Celtics’ Former Fan Favorite Helps Expose Troubling Issue In Loss To Rockets originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Marcus Smart, once the emotional centerpiece of Boston’s defense, played a disruptive role as the Rockets defeated the Celtics 109-93. Smart finished with eight points, four rebounds and four assists, but his impact extended beyond the box score.
Advertisement
Houston never trailed, although the game was tied after the opening quarter. Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 26 points and 10 assists, repeatedly creating opportunities in the paint and finding teammates when Boston sent additional attention his way.
The Rockets outscored the Celtics 50-34 in the paint and 18-2 in fast-break points. Those differences were particularly significant for a Boston team playing its second game in two nights without Paul George, who was held out for rest.
Smart’s defensive activity contributed to a difficult evening for Boston’s perimeter players. The Celtics struggled to generate the same rhythm that helped produce their five-game winning streak.
Advertisement
Jayson Tatum finished with 19 points, six rebounds and nine assists, but shot 5-for-16 from the field and 1-for-7 from 3-point range.
Neemias Queta scored 16 points, while Luka Garza provided 14 off the bench with four made 3-pointers. Those contributions were encouraging, but Boston lacked the consistent offensive production necessary to challenge Houston late.
The Celtics scored only 20 points in the fourth quarter, allowing the Rockets to turn a competitive game into a comfortable victory.
MORE: Jayson Tatum Closes In on Celtics Franchise Record After 14th Player of the Week Award
Advertisement
The loss dropped Boston to 5-2 and ended its first extended winning streak of the season.
The Celtics return home to face Milwaukee on Wednesday. That game provides an opportunity to restore their offensive rhythm, particularly if George returns to the lineup.
Monday’s result was not simply about missing one player. Houston controlled the interior, limited Boston’s transition opportunities and disrupted its half-court execution.
For a team with championship expectations, those are problems worth addressing immediately.
