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Boston Celtics: Mercury rising as win streak reaches six

By Jason Haskins

BOSTON, MA - APRIL 17: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics is surrounded by cheering fans after hitting a last second shot at the half against the Golden State Warriors at TD Garden on April 17, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - APRIL 17: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics is surrounded by cheering fans after hitting a last second shot at the half against the Golden State Warriors at TD Garden on April 17, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) /
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Boston Celtics
Boston Celtics Jabari Parker (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) /

Down by 16 late in the second quarter and down two starters — plus a key reserve — the Boston Celtics looked weary upon their return from a successful road trip. Especially with the Golden State Warriors Steph Curry torching Boston left and right.

It’s a good thing the Celtics have an equalizer of their own in Jayson Tatum.

Tatum and Curry put on a clinic on Saturday night in Boston. Two titans of the game exchanged big shot for big shot, engaging in a tit-for-tat affair as both teams looked to extend winning streaks.

Propelled by a 28-5 wrap around run between the second and third quarters and a fourth quarter of prize fighters trading blows, the Celtics won 119-114.

The two stars exemplary play was on full display from the get-go. Tatum finished with 44 points, connecting on 16-25 from the field. He also added 10 rebounds.

Curry finished with 47 and knocked down 11 three-pointers.

The victory concluded a 4-0 week for the Celtics as they extended their winning streak to six games. Boston (31-26) is 8-1 in the month of April and have now moved .5 games ahead of the Atlanta Hawks for the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference.

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Considering Boston’s struggles up until a few weeks ago, there is plenty to be optimistic about. There’s been more bounce in their game as they play with ease and confidence, with a little extra hustle to boot. Improved play on defense as helped as the team is stepping into passing lanes and protecting the rim better.

And while accolades are deserved across the roster, it really starts at the top with Tatum. Though he had a streak of scoring 20 or more stopped at 11 against the Los Angeles Lakers, Tatum is still averaging 27.5 ppg in April. His 10 rebounds tonight gave Tatum four double-doubles this month.

The star potential for Tatum has always been there and moments indicating as such have been seen plenty over the years. Now, it appears he’s fully taken on that responsibility and delivering in style.

Now, if Boston can get players healthy, we may finally see what a fully operational Celtics team looks like.

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