Will Boston's defense get back on track after their more active performance against Toronto? We have one stat that shows how much better the Cetlics were, and how they need to be moving forward. Join John Karalis and guest Tom Westerholm as they explore the Celtics' defensive resurgence, Joe Mazzulla's coaching dynamics, and the impact of the team's schedule on their performance.

The discussion covers key players like Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis, while also touching on the Celtics' upcoming challenges against teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets. Don't miss out on this engaging analysis of the Boston Celtics' journey and predictions for their January matchups. Tune in for expert insights and lively discussions!

Rocket RX
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The Boston Celtics dominate the Toronto Raptors with a staggering 54-point win, marking the second-largest win in franchise history. How did the Celtics' defense transform to achieve such a feat?

Host John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal breaks down the Celtics' defensive resurgence, highlighting key performances from Jrue Holiday, Jayson Tatum, and Jaylen Brown. Discover how Holiday's return, and his pairing with Derrick White, bolstered the team's defensive energy. Also, nice performances from Payton Pritchard, Sam Hauser, and even Al Horford despite him not scoring.

Don't miss this insightful analysis, exclusive insights, and expert commentary.

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Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
The NFL Playoffs are almost here, but it’s not too late to get in on the regular season action with FanDuel because right now, new customers can finish the season strong with TWO HUNDRED and FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins. Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.

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The Celtics closed out 2024 with a (125-71) blowout win over the Toronto Raptors at TD Garden Tuesday afternoon. The Celtics are 2-0 on the season against the Raptors, who have lost 11 straight games. The Celtics scored 45 Points in the 1st Half and then hit 10 3's and scored 45 Points in the 3rd Quarter. It's the Celtics most lopsided win of the season and 4th win this season by 30 or more.

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Scoring Totals: Jayson Tatum hit 4 3's and had 18 of his 23 in the Celtics huge 3rd Quarter. Payton Pritchard hit 5 3's and scored 19. Pritchard had 5 or more 3's in a game 15 times this season. Derrick White scored 16 and had a season-high 4 Blocks.

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No KP: Kristaps Porzingis missed his 3rd straight game with a left ankle sprain. Jrue Holiday returned to the starting lineup after missing the previous 3 Games and knocked down 4 3's and scored 14 Points.

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1st Half Nuggets- The Celtics missed their 1st 8 shot attempts (1st 6 3-point attempts) to start the game but went on a 14-2 run and finished the 1st Quarter with an 11-point lead on Toronto. The Raptors scored just 12 Points in the 1st and that's the fewest points the Celtics have allowed in a Quarter this season. Raptors opened the game by missing on their 1st 14 3-point attempts and then hit 2 in a row.

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What's On Tap?: The Celtics went 3-4 during their stretch of playing 7 games in 13 days. The Celtics open up the new year with a 4-game road trip that starts with Thursday's game in Minneapolis against the Timberwolves. The Celtics beat the T-Wolves, 107-105, at TD Garden on November 24th. The Celtics road trip continues against the Houston Rockets Friday night.

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Locked On Celtics POSTCAST-

We are on board after each Celtics game with instant reaction and your participation is always welcomed on the Locked On Sports Boston - YouTube.

Don't forget to tell your friends about us.

Follow on the X (Twitter) Steve Lenox (@LenoxOnHoops) / X.

-----

Friendly Reminder: Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! Introducing the Locked On Celtics daily newsletter. One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at www.lockedondaily.com. That’s www.lockedondaily.com and start your day with the all-new & free Locked On Celtics newsletter.

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Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
The NFL Playoffs are almost here, but it’s not too late to get in on the regular season action with FanDuel because right now, new customers can finish the season strong with TWO HUNDRED and FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins. Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

What does it mean when the Celtics aren't trying hard enough on defense? What does it look like when they don't? Host John Karalis, alongside guest Tom Westerholm, breaks down the team's defensive engagement and the nuances to look for when a team really isn't trying. They explore how the Celtics' mentality has shifted from last season and discuss the importance of maintaining focus and communication on the court. With key players like Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday absent, the Celtics face challenges that could impact their standing in the Eastern Conference. Featuring insights on star players like Jayson Tatum and Derrick White, this episode offers a critical look at the Celtics' path forward. Tune in to discover how the Celtics can overcome these hurdles and what it means for their playoff position.

Rocket RX
Right now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.
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Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
The NFL Playoffs are almost here, but it’s not too late to get in on the regular season action with FanDuel because right now, new customers can finish the season strong with TWO HUNDRED and FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins. Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

After a tough loss to the Indiana Pacers, questions loom over the Celtics' ability to maintain their championship form. Host John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal dissects the Celtics' defensive struggles and inconsistent effort, spotlighting key players like Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. The episode explores the potential complacency creeping into the team and the need for a renewed focus on defense. Karalis also provides a detailed analysis of individual performances, including Al Horford's shooting challenges and Payton Pritchard's mixed contributions.

Will the Celtics find the motivation to turn their defense around? Tune in for an insightful breakdown of their path forward.

Rocket RX
Right now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.
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Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
The NFL Playoffs are almost here, but it’s not too late to get in on the regular season action with FanDuel because right now, new customers can finish the season strong with TWO HUNDRED and FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins. Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Celtics never led at any point in the 2nd Half and ended up losing, 123-114, to the Indiana Pacers Sunday night at TD Garden. The Celtics won by 37 over the Pacers on Friday night and allowed Indiana to shoot 52.9 % from the field for the game. The Pacers scored 66 Points in the Paint. The Pacers took 2 of the 3 meetings between the 2 teams in the season series. The Celtics have lost 4 of 6 overall.

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Scoring Totals: Tyrese Haliburton scored 31 points in the win and also had 7 Assists and 6 Rebounds. Indiana had 6 players in double-figures including all 5 starters. Jaylen Brown scored 31 for the Celtics. Jayson Tatum scored 22 in the loss and was 2-for-10 on the 3-point line. Al Horford went 1-for-10 on 3's and 2-for-12 overall. Payton Pritchard scored just 2 points in the 2nd Half after putting up 19 in the 1st Half.

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No KP...No Jrue: Kristaps Porzingis missed his 2nd straight game with a left ankle sprain. Porzingis played for Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle in Dallas. Jrue Holiday missed his 3rd in a row with a right shoulder impingement. Sam Hauser started his 2nd straight game and 4th game of the season.

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1st Half Nuggets- Celtics were up 2 after the 1st Quarter but allowed 38 points in the 2nd Quarter and were down 7 at Halftime. Jayson Tatum failed to score in the 1st Quarter and was 1-for-8 from the field and scored 5 points in the 1st Half. Jaylen Brown had 18 and Payton Pritchard hit 5 3's and scored 19 in the 1st Half. Celtics hit 10 3's in the 1st 24 minutes. Pacers shot 58.1% from the field in the 1st Half.

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What's On Tap?: The Celtics are (2-4) during this current stretch of playing 7 games in 13 days. The Celtics conclude their current 4-game homestand against the Toronto Raptors on New Year's Eve afternoon. Boston beat the Raptors in overtime at TD Garden on November 16.

-----

Locked On Celtics POSTCAST-

We are on board after each Celtics game with instant reaction and your participation is always welcomed on the Locked On Sports Boston - YouTube.

Don't forget to tell your friends about us.

Follow on the X (Twitter) Steve Lenox (@LenoxOnHoops) / X.

-----

Friendly Reminder: Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! Introducing the Locked On Celtics daily newsletter. One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at www.lockedondaily.com. That’s www.lockedondaily.com and start your day with the all-new & free Locked On Celtics newsletter.

-----

Rocket RX
Right now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.
Rocket RX: Better sex, made simple.

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
The NFL Playoffs are almost here, but it’s not too late to get in on the regular season action with FanDuel because right now, new customers can finish the season strong with TWO HUNDRED and FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins. Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Jaylen Brown shines as the Boston Celtics secure a nice bounce-back win over the Indiana Pacers. Brown's 44-point domination of the Pacers was something he and the team needed. And with solid contributions from Jayson Tatum, Al Horford, and Payton Pritchard, this is the type of performance C's fans have been looking for. Host John Karalis breaks down the team's improved performance while also addressing the Pacers' challenges.

Tune in to discover how the Celtics plan to maintain their momentum and what to expect in their upcoming rematch against the Pacers.

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The NFL Playoffs are almost here, but it’s not too late to get in on the regular season action with FanDuel because right now, new customers can finish the season strong with TWO HUNDRED and FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins.Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Celtics have dipped a little in December. Is this reason for concern, or should we just brush it off? John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal spends a segment exploring the pessimistic side of things (home losses, poor shooting, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown turnovers) and another on the optimistic side (It's only December, they've shown better basketball) before figuring out which percentage of which we should be feeling right now.

Skylight Frames
We've got the perfect gift for you! Skylight Frame is the touchscreen digital photo frame your whole family will love. As a special, limited-time offer for our listeners, get $20 OFF your purchase of a Skylight Frame when you go to SkylightFrame.com/NBA.

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Rocket RX
Right now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.
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Robinhood
Robinhood Gold provides the privileges of a high net worth for any net worth. These generous benefits are now available for only $5/month. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. Sign up at robinhood.com/gold.

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
The NFL Playoffs are almost here, but it’s not too late to get in on the regular season action with FanDuel because right now, new customers can finish the season strong with TWO HUNDRED and FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins.Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)