By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Boston Celtics edged Toronto Raptors 102-99 on Monday night, taking a 2-0 lead in their Eastern Conference semifinal matchup, led by Jayson Tatum’s 34-point performance.
Marcus Smart scored 19 points, 16 of which early in the fourth period of the game, changing its course for the Celtics. He dropped five three points in a little over three minutes, helping his team ease back from a 12-point deficit ending the third period. Kemba Walker had 17 points and Jaylen Brown scored 16 for Boston.
OG Anunoby tapped 20 points for Toronto, Fred VanVleet, who missed a 28-footer at the buzzer, added 19 points. Serge Ibaka and Pascal Siakam scored 17 points apiece and Kyle Lowry added 16 for Toronto.
The Celtics are up 3-0 against the Raptors upon the NBA’s restart in the bubble and 5-1 against them this season. The series will continue Thursday with Game 3.