On February 5, the Boston Celtics dominated the visiting Memphis Grizzlies, securing a wire-to-wire victory with a final score of 131-91. Jayson Tatum showcased his skills, leading the game with an impressive stat line of 34 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists in just 31 minutes of play. Kristaps Porzingis contributed 26 points and eight rebounds, while Derrick White added 15 points.

Despite missing starting forward Jaylen Brown due to lower back soreness, the Celtics controlled the game from the start. They built a 20-point lead at halftime and extended it to as high as 27 points during the third quarter, entering the final quarter with a comfortable 99-76 advantage. The Celtics took the opportunity to rest their starters, keeping them on the bench for most or all of the fourth quarter.

Memphis struggled throughout the game, with Scotty Pippen Jr. leading their scoring efforts with 19 points. The Grizzlies, who have now lost five consecutive games, received 18 points from GG Jackson and 14 points from David Roddy. Tosan Evbuomwan grabbed a game-high 12 rebounds.

Former Celtics guard Marcus Smart, who was traded to the Grizzlies last June in a three-team deal that brought Porzingis to Boston, did not play due to a finger ιnjury. However, he received a warm welcome from the crowd with a standing ovation during a video tribute.

The Grizzlies faced multiple injuries, including Jaren Jackson Jr., who sat out with right hip soreness. Despite their depleted roster, Memphis dressed but did not play Santi Aldama (tailbone), Vince Williams Jr. (wrist), John Konchar (calf), and Derrick Rose (hamstring), resulting in the team using only eight players.

The Celtics’ victory was crucial for them to avoid back-to-back losses at home. They now hold an impressive 11-1 record in games following a loss this season. Boston established their dominance early, leading 29-20 after the first quarter and maintaining a commanding 70-50 lead at halftime. Memphis briefly closed the gap to 46-44 in the second quarter, but Boston responded with a 21-4 run, ending the half with a 67-48 advantage after a 3-pointer by Tatum.