Boston Celtics vs Washington Wizards
PREVIEW: The Washington Wizards arrive at TD Garden ranked 2nd in quick tempo while simultaneously struggling with defensive efficiency, allowing plenty of attacks at the rim and ranking 29th in turnover creation. Washington is fighting through a five-game losing streak after falling to the Knicks 119-102 on Monday. Offensively, the Wizards rank 25th in scoring, averaging 112.6 points per game while shooting 45.3% from the field. On the defensive end, the situation is dire, with the team allowing 127.0 points per game and permitting opponents to shoot 47.6% overall and 36.3% from three.
The Boston Celtics showcase elite ball security ranked 1st in low turnovers while launching the most three-pointers in the NBA at a 50.9% rate of their attempts. Boston dropped consecutive games including Monday's narrow 105-103 defeat to Utah at home. Despite offensive struggles, the Celtics maintain the league's third-best defense, allowing just 109.6 points per game while holding opponents to 43.2% shooting overall and 36.1% from beyond the arc. Jaylen Brown has shouldered the offensive load, averaging 26.8 points per game as Boston navigates injuries to key contributors.