The recent clash between the Boston Celtics and the Golden State Warriors raises a critical question: Can the Celtics maintain their momentum in the playoffs while the Warriors struggle without their star player? The answer was a resounding yes, as the Celtics defeated the Warriors 120-99 at TD Garden on March 18, 2026.
In this decisive victory, Jaylen Brown emerged as the standout performer, scoring 32 points, while Jayson Tatum contributed significantly with 24 points and 10 rebounds. This win not only extended the Celtics’ win streak to three games but also solidified their position as a strong contender in the Eastern Conference with a record of 45-23.
On the other hand, the Warriors faced another setback, dropping to a disappointing 33-35 record and remaining ninth in the Western Conference. Their struggles have been exacerbated by the absence of Stephen Curry, who is sidelined due to a knee injury. The Warriors have now lost all six games since Curry’s injury, raising concerns about their chances in the upcoming play-in tournament.
“This league doesn’t give you nights off,” Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla remarked, highlighting the competitive nature of the NBA. The Celtics jumped out early, building a 63-50 halftime lead fueled by Brown’s scorching start and Tatum’s all-around efficiency.
Without Curry, Golden State managed to score only 99 points, a stark contrast to their usual offensive prowess. The ongoing 0-6 skid since Curry’s injury has left fans and analysts questioning the team’s ability to rebound in a loaded Western Conference.
The Celtics’ victory was broadcasted on ESPN, with tipoff at 7:00 p.m. ET, and followed their previous win against the Phoenix Suns, where they also scored 120 points. This consistent scoring showcases the Celtics’ offensive capabilities, even with Nikola Vucevic out due to a hand injury.
As the season progresses, the Celtics are focused on maintaining their playoff position, while the Warriors must find a way to adapt without their leader. The road ahead is critical for both teams, with the Celtics aiming for a strong playoff run and the Warriors needing to regroup quickly.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the timeline for Curry’s return, which will be pivotal for the Warriors’ playoff aspirations. The Celtics, meanwhile, will look to capitalize on their current form as they prepare for their next matchups.