PREVIEW: The Boston Celtics arrive in San Antonio as a 23-13 team playing the second leg of a back-to-back after facing the Denver Nuggets , a scheduling disadvantage that could prove costly against one of the league's hottest squads. Boston excels at defending three-point shooters and maintains excellent spacing on offense, ranking second in both categories , but their defensive approach allows opponents to attempt a concerning number of perimeter shots at a 44.8% rate. Coming off a loss to Denver with another game against Toronto still ahead , the Celtics' depth will be tested by a Spurs team entering with fresh legs and momentum. Boston's offense averages 117.6 points per game while holding opponents to 110.6 , a solid two-way profile that will need to be at its sharpest to overcome fatigue. San Antonio brings a formidable 26-11 record into this matchup, with elite rim protection on defense ranked third while limiting shots attacking the basket , a combination that could prove problematic for Boston's driving lanes. The Spurs rank 6th in fewest three-point attempts allowed on defense (3PA%: 39.9%). , a vulnerability the ball-movement-oriented Celtics could potentially exploit if they maintain their offensive rhythm. San Antonio's strong low turnover rate sits at second-best league-wide, and their offense is averaging 119 points per game against a defense allowing 113.3 , indicating a well-balanced attacking approach. The Spurs are coming off a victory over the Lakers in which Keldon Johnson led the team with 27 points and Victor Wembanyama had 16 points and 14 rebounds. , showcasing the depth that makes them such a challenging opponent.