Boston Celtics vs. Portland Trail Blazers: Play-by-play, highlights and reactions

The Boston Celtics (13-11) play against the Portland Trail Blazers (13-13) at Moda Center

Game Time: 10:00 PM EST on Saturday December 4, 2021

Boston Celtics 145, Portland Trail Blazers 117 (Final)

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

John Karalis @John_Karalis
New on BSJ: Jayson Tatum blazing trails to more open layups (video breakdown)
bostonsportsjournal.com/2021/12/05/kar… – 3:47 AM Adam Himmelsbach @AdamHimmelsbach
“When the ball was moving, less holding, less isolation, we feel it as coaches. I said, ‘I see it and you see it, too.’”
Boston’s offense is awake, and the team is excited to see what comes next.
Full report from Portland.
bostonglobe.com/2021/12/05/spo… – 3:26 AM Jordan Schultz @Schultz_Report
X-Rays negative on CJ McCollum, per sources, as first reported by @Chris Haynes. CJ was forced to leave tonight’s game vs the Celtics with an injury to his ribs. – 2:16 AM Jay Allen @PDXjay
The #Blazers say CJ McCollum had rib x-rays, and they were negative. He’ll be further evaluated on Sunday. – 2:04 AM Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
#RipCity pic.twitter.com/awLD0Ggtu9 – 1:59 AM

Chris Haynes @ChrisBHaynes
Portland Trail Blazers guard CJ McCollum underwent X-Rays on his ribs and results came back negative, league sources tell @YahooSports. He suffered bruised ribs and will be re-evaluated tomorrow. – 1:45 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Dennis Schroder on Payton Pritchard’s late flurry: “It was great. Well, I got a technical, so maybe it wasn’t that great!” – 1:37 AM Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
Since the 2-5 Celtics arrived in Florida November 2nd, they have the 6th best Net Rating in the NBA (GSW, Phoenix, Utah, Milwaukee, Brooklyn).
But the four games this week have seen the offensive and defensive numbers completely flip-flop. pic.twitter.com/KWuFvSDwWZ – 1:35 AM

Boston Celtics @celtics
Jayson Tatum says of his offensive rhythm right now, “I feel a lot better about myself after Game than I did at Game 1.” – 1:34 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Jayson Tatum: “It’s about time that we, as a group at the same time, hit some shots.” – 1:34 AM Jay King @ByJayKing
Jayson Tatum: “It’s about time that we as a group at the same time hit some shots.” – 1:33 AM Jay King @ByJayKing
As Jayson Tatum gives his press conference, Dennis Schroder is in the back of the room: “Talk that shit, man.” – 1:33 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Jayson Tatum said the headbands were his idea. “Just something to have some fun. It’s a long season. You want to have some fun during it.” – 1:32 AM Brian Robb @BrianTRobb
Jayson Tatum said he had the idea for the team to wear headbands together before the game. – 1:31 AM Chris Grenham @chrisgrenham
Jayson Tatum on Payton Pritchard:
“It hasn’t been ideal for him, but he’s always ready when his number is called.” – 1:30 AM Jabari Young @JabariJYoung
Meanwhile…. J.B. Bickerstaff has #Cavs balling … and it’s good to see. JB is a damn good coach and glad he’s getting a legit shot to show and prove it. #NBA – 1:17 AM Mike Richman @mikegrich
For those asking, Chauncey Billups said CJ McCollum was getting an x-ray on his ribs after the game, but had no other update. McCollum left the court and went straight back to the locker room midway through the fourth quarter. – 1:08 AM Ralph Lawler @Ohmeomy
Disappointing outcome in Clippers 5-point loss to the Kings in Sacramento. Need Monday night win in Portland to get back above .500. That was Clippers first loss in Sac since 2013 when Vinnie Del Negro was coach. These losses to N. Orl and Kings May come back to haunt the Clips. – 1:00 AM Sean Highkin @highkin
This Blazers team has a very 2015-16 Bulls feel to me. Management thought changing the coach alone would fix everything but in reality this group has just been together a couple years too long and it had grown toxic. – 12:50 AM Boston Celtics @celtics
The offense was 🔥 🔥 🔥 tonight in Portland nba.com/celtics/gamere… – 12:49 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Payton Pritchard on the end of the game: “We’re hitting shots. I don’t know what they want us to do.” – 12:43 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Payton Pritchard said it felt great to play well in his hometown. – 12:42 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Ime Udoka said prior games where Boston has lost big leads has been tough because it’s cost young players some valuable developmental minutes. – 12:41 AM Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Clippers fall to 0-4 on second night of back-to-backs, lose 4-of-5 in 7-day stretch, and are back at .500 following their second loss to the Sacramento Kings this week.
104-99 is the final score. Terence Davis II led all scorers with 28 points. Clippers travel to Portland Monday – 12:41 AM Boston Celtics @celtics
Coach Udoka says he pointed out to the team tonight how much better it is when it’s moving the ball, and he told them they had to see it and feel it as well on nights like this, during which we scored a season-high 145 points. – 12:39 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Asked about the Celtics wearing headbands, Ime Udoka said “I saw that. Something different. I don’t know the reason and I don’t really care (laughs).” – 12:38 AM Chris Grenham @chrisgrenham
Ime Udoka on the why a lot of Celtics players wore headbands tonight:
“Don’t know. Don’t really care.” – 12:38 AM Jay King @ByJayKing
Ime Udoka does not know why the Celtics wore headbands today: “Don’t know. Don’t really care.” – 12:38 AM Boston Celtics @celtics
Spins, fakes, and gets it to go off one foot.
JT with tonight’s @JetBlue Play of the Game pic.twitter.com/sM2ktQVZw3 – 12:37 AM

Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Ime Udoka said he apologized to Chauncey Billups for the extra shots Payton Pritchard put up i in the closing seconds.
Udoka added that he was happy to see Pritchard make some shots. – 12:37 AM Jay King @ByJayKing
Ime Udoka said he was happy for Payton Pritchard, but also apologized to Chauncey Billups because the Celtics got out of hand celebrating for Pritchard and trying to get him chances during the final moments. – 12:36 AM John Karalis @John_Karalis
Ime Udoka says he apologized to Chauncey Billups for the extra shots Payton Pritchard fired up at the end instead of holding it to close out the game. – 12:36 AM Boston Celtics @celtics
GO OFF @Payton Pritchard pic.twitter.com/WHd7QSVOHE – 12:34 AM

Brian Robb @BrianTRobb
Four takeaways as #Celtics erupt for their best offensive night of the season in Portland masslive.com/celtics/2021/1… – 12:31 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Add Portland to the Indiana list of teams that are past their expiration date. It’s time to make some sweeping changes. They gave it a good run with this group, but they aren’t going anywhere together as currently constructed. – 12:31 AM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Boston wins going away, 145-117 over Blazers.
CELTICS:
Tatum: 31 pts, 10 rebounds, 4 assists.
Schröder: 31 pts, 8 assists, 4 rebounds
Kanter: 9 pts, 15 rebounds.
BLAZERS:
McCollum: 24 pts, 6 assists.
Nurkic: 18 pts
Smith, Jr.: 21 pts – 12:30 AM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
LIVE Garden Report: Celtics vs Trail Blazers Postgame Show | Powered by @betonline_ag, @calm & @insacannabis twitter.com/i/broadcasts/1… – 12:29 AM Jay Allen @PDXjay
The Celtics’ 145 points tonight here at Moda Center are the most the #Blazers have ever given up in a regulation home game. – 12:25 AM Sam Vecenie @Sam_Vecenie
Might be time for some further changes in Portland. – 12:24 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Celtics win 145-117
Schroder – 31/4/8
Tatum – 31/10/4
Smart – 17 points
Grant – 10 points
Freedom – 9 points, 15 rebounds
Pritchard – 19 points
Nesmith – 11 points
Celtics – 56.3% shooting
Celtics – 21-37 three-pointers – 12:24 AM Boston Celtics @celtics
Bounced back  #CELTICSWIN pic.twitter.com/oVRqgUUAjK – 12:24 AM

Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
BOSTON CELTICS – MOST POINTS
(Last 30 years)
150 – Vs. Washington, November, 1992
149 – Vs. Brooklyn, August, 2020
145 – Vs. Minnesota, April, 2021
145 – @ Portland, Tonight – 12:24 AM Chris Grenham @chrisgrenham
Celtics have their highest-scoring night of the season, posting 145 points on 56.3% shooting. – 12:24 AM Boston Celtics @celtics
PP PUTTING ON A SHOW 🔥 pic.twitter.com/qn9X1V7lhD – 12:23 AM

Sean Highkin @highkin
Things are not going well for the Portland Trail Blazers at the moment across the board. – 12:23 AM Casey Holdahl @CHold
Celtics 145, Blazers 117: FINAL. 24 points, 6 assists for @CJ McCollum. 18 points, 5 rebounds for @Jusuf Nurkic. 21 points, 6 assists for @Dennis Smith. 10 points, 8 rebounds for @Cody Zeller. – 12:23 AM Ky Carlin @Ky_Carlin
The Portland Trail Blazers just gave up 145 points to the Boston Celtics tonight. They could definitely use some size and a versatile defender to add to their roster. – 12:23 AM Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
Final.
#RipCity pic.twitter.com/7ijJnlAlbH – 12:23 AM

Brian Robb @BrianTRobb
That may have been the best Celtics bench celebration of the season. – 12:22 AM Aaron J. Fentress @AaronJFentress
Payton Pritchard’s Celtics teammates love him. – 12:21 AM Chris Grenham @chrisgrenham
Payton Pritchard has 19 points on 6-of-9 FG. He’s putting on an absolute show in these garbage time minutes. Pretty cool that he’s doing it in Portland. – 12:21 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
The Celtics bench got a technical foul because they went so bananas after that last Pritchard bomb. – 12:21 AM Mike Richman @mikegrich
The Celtics are absolutely clowning the Blazers in garbage time. The Boston bench was wylin so hard they got a tech for laying on the court and celebrating. – 12:20 AM Jay King @ByJayKing
Payton Pritchard is putting on a show here for his hometown crowd late in a blowout win. – 12:20 AM Casey Holdahl @CHold
Payton Pritchard lighting it up from three in garbage time and the Celtics bench is doing full on skits to celebrate. – 12:20 AM Jay King @ByJayKing
Payton Pritchard, my goodness. – 12:20 AM Casey Holdahl @CHold
If the end of Portland’s bench is going to get dunked on over and over on defense, the least they could do is run some plays for Greg Brown on offense – 12:18 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Since he’s done for the night: This was Dennis Schroder’s best game as a Celtic. Boston needed him to be good with a shorthanded team and he delivered.
31 points
8 assists
4 rebounds
1 turnover
He was on the attack from the jump and didn’t settle at all. Great game tonight. – 12:16 AM Boston Celtics @celtics
1⃣ 💪🏽 pic.twitter.com/y3y7MAgxW7 – 12:14 AM

Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Jaylen Brown flexing on the sideline after that Bruno Fernando finish. – 12:14 AM John Karalis @John_Karalis
I didn’t like the way Robert Williams grabbed at the back of his leg after that dunk attempt – 12:13 AM John Karalis @John_Karalis
It’s not an Aaron Nesmith game if I don’t gasp in fear of him suffering a major injury – 12:12 AM JD Shaw @JShawNBA
Some early-season standings craziness: The Grizzlies are now fourth in the Western Conference at 13-10, ahead of the Clippers, Mavericks, Nuggets, Lakers and Blazers. The team has won four straight games without Ja Morant (knee sprain). – 12:12 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Nesmith just tried to destroy a Portland player. Respect to Elleby for challenging that dunk attempt. – 12:11 AM Jason Quick @jwquick
CJ McCollum heads straight to locker room after being taken out of game with 5:51. Looked like he was favoring his rib area, but I didn’t get a good look. – 12:11 AM Jay King @ByJayKing
Aaron Nesmith just tried to do some shit. – 12:11 AM Chris Grenham @chrisgrenham
Jayson Tatum and Dennis Schroder have a combined 62 points, 14 rebounds and 12 assists on 59.4% shooting tonight. – 12:11 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Good ATO play design there. Everything emptied out for Tatum to drive for the and-1. – 12:08 AM John Karalis @John_Karalis
Marcus Smart hit the back of his head on Robert Covington’s knee as he fell to the ground. Very dangerous situation – 12:06 AM Jay King @ByJayKing
Marcus Smart holding the back of his head as the Celtics walk into the timeout huddle. – 12:05 AM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Ime Udoka went back to Smart and Tatum after the timeout. He’s trying to get this one closed out and into some garbage time. – 12:04 AM Boston Celtics @celtics
Another swat by @Robert Williams pic.twitter.com/NtEvwGjtGo – 12:03 AM

Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Boston can’t get too casual too early here. Have to keep pushing on both ends. – 12:00 AM Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
5th 25-point lead for the Celtics this year.
Four of them (Houston, LA Lakers, OKC, Portland) have come against Western Conference teams. – 11:58 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Love Josh Richardson up cheering for Nesmith hitting shots. Richardson is the guy who stands to lose the most minutes if Nesmith was to force his way into the rotation. That’s being a good vet and teammate. – 11:58 PM Portland Trail Blazers PR @TrailBlazersPR
Third Quarter Box Score: Celtics 103, Trail Blazers 84
statsdmz.nba.com/pdfs/20211204/… – 11:58 PM Boston Celtics @celtics
🔘🔘🔘
J. Tatum – 28 PTS, 9 REB, 4 AST
D. Schroder – 26 PTS, 6 AST pic.twitter.com/ZL2h5n1kb6 – 11:54 PM

Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
As expected, Tatum sits to open Q4 and Schroder on with the backups.
Schroder/Pritchard backcourt should be able to hold up fine against the smallish Blazers. – 11:54 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
End of the 3Q.
Tatum: 28 pts, 9 reb
Schröder: 26 pts, 6 assists
PORTLAND
McCollum: 22 pts, 5 assists, 4 PFs
Nurkic: 18 pts pic.twitter.com/UAMOK9dU3I – 11:53 PM

Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Celtics lead 103-84 after three
Tatum – 28/9/4
Schroder – 26 points
Smart – 17 points
Freedom – 9 points, 15 rebounds
Celtics – 56.3% shooting
Celtics – 14-23 three-pointers
McCollum – 22 points
Nurkic – 18 points
Zeller – 10 points
Blazers – 6-22 three-pointers – 11:53 PM Dwight Jaynes @dwightjaynes
Inside source told me tonight the Blazers have not even spoken to Danny Ainge about vacant GM job. Oregon native, former Blazer, won a title as GM, very experienced. To not even talk to him is ridiculous. At a crucial time for this franchise when big decisions are due – 11:52 PM Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
Celtics now 17-19 from the free throw line, 39-41 the last two nights. They’re over 82% for the year, just behind Chicago for the NBA lead.
Enes Freedom missed a free throw late in the 2nd, ending the Celtics’ streak of 34 straight, dating back to the 2nd quarter on Wednesday. – 11:52 PM Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
🔴
#RipCity pic.twitter.com/8l9OPczSlf – 11:52 PM

Casey Holdahl @CHold
Celtics 103, Blazers 84: end of third quarter. 22 points, 5 assists for @CJ McCollum. 18 points, 5 rebounds for @Jusuf Nurkic. 10 points, 8 rebounds for @Cody Zeller. 9 points, 3 assists for @Dennis Smith. – 11:51 PM Paul Garcia @PaulGarciaNBA
During the winning streak the Spurs have been cashing in on opponent turnovers
Points per opp turnover in last 3 games:
vs WAS: 1.86 Point per turnover
@ POR: 1.50 PPT
@ GSW: 1.77 PPT
Season average for the Spurs is 1.19 PPT – 11:50 PM Adam Himmelsbach @AdamHimmelsbach
Nice bounce-back by the Celtics. 21-point lead was cut to 1 and implosion felt likely. Now they’ve stretched it back to 16 behind Tatum, Schroder, and Smart, who continue to get whatever shots they want. – 11:47 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Rotation tweak from Ime Udoka. Schroder out and Pritchard in. Looks like Tatum may go the whole quarter this time around. Then Schroder will come back with the reserves to open Q4. – 11:46 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
9 points, 13 rebounds and 2 blocks for Freedom already. Big minutes from him for the shorthanded Celtics, and with Rob Williams in foul trouble. – 11:45 PM John Karalis @John_Karalis
Curious to see how Udoka handles the rotations from here on out. C’s were +15 after 1 & the 2nd was a disaster with deep substitutions. C’s now +16 & Tatum needs to sit soon. Who does he go with? – 11:45 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Freedom set a really good screen to get Tatum…free.
That’s a weird sentence. – 11:42 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Nance hits a three on Boston and @dangercart has at least five different trade scenarios prepared for the Celtics to get him. – 11:40 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
That’s a great drive by Schroder. That was a very hard drive and he blew right by McCollum for the layup. – 11:37 PM Jay King @ByJayKing
Marcus Smart does not seem too concerned with Dennis Smith Jr’s 3-point shot. – 11:36 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Not a lot of PGs can handle Smart in the post. Dennis Smith Jr is not on that short list. – 11:35 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
As great a scorer as C.J. McCollum is, his defense has been and will continue to be, his greatest weakness. The Celtics guards know this and are attacking him EVERY CHANCE THEY GET! He has 22 pts, but also 4 personal fouls with 7-plus minutes to play in the 3Q. – 11:34 PM Boston Celtics @celtics
Tatum in his BAG 🔥 pic.twitter.com/lE9BDWTBm1 – 11:32 PM

Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Four fouls on Rob Williams now. Lots of Freedom minutes coming. – 11:32 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
There are Premier Soccer league players that can’t flop as well as Dennis Schröder did in getting that tech against the Blazers. #awardworthyflop pic.twitter.com/qWR3e6DdZM – 11:32 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
If the Celtics want Jayson Tatum to avoid early-season slumps, they clearly need to start the year on a west coast trip. He always gets it going out west. – 11:31 PM Jay King @ByJayKing
Robert Williams with four personal fouls. Celtics already shorthanded at center with Al Horford out. Could be a lot of Freedom the rest of the way. – 11:31 PM Chris Grenham @chrisgrenham
Jayson Tatum has 20 points, seven rebounds and four assists on 7-of-12 FG.
He’s looked comfortable and confident out there following his 37-point outing last night. – 11:30 PM Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
Love you, @TimbersFC 💚
#RCTID | #RipCity pic.twitter.com/Os1HjFTvwL – 11:30 PM

A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Jayson Tatum has seemingly decided to dig just a little bit deeper into his bag when he sees Robert Covington guarding him. Tatum, who now has 20 pts, 7 rebounds and 4 assists w/8-plus minutes to play in the 3Q, has pushed Boston’s lead up to 80-68. – 11:29 PM John Karalis @John_Karalis
Nothing like west coast trips to get Jayson Tatum going. – 11:29 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Oh geez Tatum…that was something. – 11:28 PM Sean Highkin @highkin
Dennis Schroder just tripped over CJ McCollum who then tripped over Dennis Schroder who then tripped over CJ McCollum and then somehow Nurkic got a technical – 11:27 PM Jay King @ByJayKing
Marcus Smart is really using his physicality against McCollum. Has had a bunch of grown man buckets already. – 11:26 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Celtics slim lead at the half.
Tatum: 13 pts, 7 reb
Kanter: 7 pts, 10 reb
Schröder: 15 pts, 4 assists
PORTLAND
McCollum:.17 pts
Nurkic: 13 pts pic.twitter.com/IWwP8zbBgO – 11:15 PM

Portland Trail Blazers PR @TrailBlazersPR
Halftime Box Score: Celtics 64, Trail Blazers 58
statsdmz.nba.com/pdfs/20211204/… – 11:15 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Celtics lead 64-58 after three
Schroder – 15 points
Tatum – 13/7/3
Smart – 9 points
Celtics – 55.8% shooting
Celtics – 11-19 three-pointers
Celtics – 6 turnovers
McCollum – 17 points
Nurkic – 13 points
Zeller – 8 points
Blazers – 3-10 three-pointers
Blazers – 3 turnovers – 11:09 PM Jay King @ByJayKing
Was that the best dunk of Freedom’s Celtics tenure? – 11:09 PM Boston Celtics @celtics
Halftime in Portland pic.twitter.com/z1n4QYYqzV – 11:08 PM

Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
35 point second quarter.
#RipCity pic.twitter.com/ETxIXSZOmO – 11:08 PM

Casey Holdahl @CHold
Celtics 64, Blazers 58: halftime. 17 points, 3 assists for @CJ McCollum. 13 points, 4 rebounds for @Jusuf Nurkic. 8 points, 8 rebounds for @Cody Zeller. 7 points, 3 assists for @Dennis Smith. – 11:07 PM John Schuhmann @johnschuhmann
All 6 games tonight are rest-advantage games. Teams that didn’t play last night (CHI, MEM, MIL & SAS) are 4-0 so far.
POR has climbed out of a big hole. SAC up 6 at the half on the Clips.
Rest-advantage teams are 52-31 (.627) this season. Would be best mark of last 8 years. – 11:07 PM Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
Norm 🤝 Nurk pic.twitter.com/nFw58rZRVG – 11:05 PM

Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
What a pass by Tatum on the break. That was beautiful. – 11:04 PM John Karalis @John_Karalis
Juancho Hernangomez is a -18 in a game Boston once led by 21 and currently lead by 6 – 11:04 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Wow! C.J. McCollum fouled on a 3-point attempt. Marcus Smart apparently said the magic word or words, gets T’d up. C.J. makes 3 of them and now that ginormous lead Boston had, is down to just two points (50-48) with 3:24 to play in the 2Q. – 11:01 PM Sean Highkin @highkin
“Enes Freedom” has been said over the PA about 4 or 5 times now and it hasn’t stopped being funny. – 11:00 PM Adam Himmelsbach @AdamHimmelsbach
Celtics are….unraveling. Smart fouls McCollum on a 3, then gets a tech for complaining about it.
19-point lead is down to 2 in a blink. Started when Boston went deep into its bench. – 11:00 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Three fouls on Marcus Smart.
And a technical on Smart.
Just a really bad sequence from him. It was a bad foul by him and then a worse technical. – 11:00 PM Casey Holdahl @CHold
Blazers on a 16-3 run that has cut what once was a 21-point deficit down to 5 with 3:30 to play in the first half. – 10:58 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Some truly rotten offense by the Celtics here. Being bailed out by the Williamses on the offensive glass. – 10:58 PM Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
Stay solid
@Dennis Smith | #RipCity pic.twitter.com/cAk8EFp2yC – 10:58 PM

A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
If we could take a look inside Ime Udoka’s head right now looking at what the Celtics have done this quarter defensively… pic.twitter.com/cmL9JIetad – 10:56 PM Jay Allen @PDXjay
26-12 run by the #Blazers, after trailing by 21 late in the 1st qtr. They’re within 7. #RipCity – 10:56 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Big shot by Juancho there. Redeeming shot a bit. – 10:55 PM Paul Garcia @PaulGarciaNBA
The Spurs improve to 5-1 when leading by 20 points.
Their largest leads in the last 4 games:
vs BOS: +24
vs WAS: +18
@ POR: +31
@ GSW: +22 – 10:55 PM Boston Celtics @celtics
N🚫 SHOT pic.twitter.com/8mHRhJVfoY – 10:54 PM

John Karalis @John_Karalis
It looked like Udoka laid into Robert Williams after the timeout. Rob left Zeller to try to block the shot on the drive and Zeller just put back the easy dunk. Just like last night when he left Gobert. Undisciplined stuff from Rob – 10:53 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
As well as the #Celtics start to tpnight’s game was, they are doing some very Celtics-like things (not boxing out; missing open shots; getting beat off the dribble) that has allowed the Blazers back into the game, w/Boston’s lead now down to 11 pts (47-36). C’s fans are like… pic.twitter.com/gPFnL1FRGi – 10:53 PM David Aldridge @davidaldridgedc
Since starting 4-13, Spurs have won four straight, including wins over Boston, Washington-and, tonight, over the red-hot Warriors in San Francisco. – 10:52 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Good timeout by Udoka. Boston needs to get reorganized. Don’t want to push the minutes too much on a back-to-back, but need to get Schroder and Smart back in there soon. – 10:52 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Not the best sequence for Juancho. Bad turnover then tripped over halfcourt and let Nance get a runout layup. – 10:51 PM John Karalis @John_Karalis
Tatum is throwing some pinpoint passes today. That one through traffic to Juancho was laser guided – 10:51 PM Jay Allen @PDXjay
Norm Powell (nasal fracture) has already shed the mask after wearing it to start the game. Robert Covington ditched his last game. – 10:50 PM Portland Trail Blazers PR @TrailBlazersPR
First Quarter Box Score: Celtics 38, Trail Blazers 23
statsdmz.nba.com/pdfs/20211204/… – 10:49 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
NBC Sports Boston just ran the highlights of Larry Bird playing a game mostly left-handed in Portland and dominating. – 10:48 PM Boston Celtics @celtics
🤑 pic.twitter.com/7jjSPvaHT3 – 10:45 PM

Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
First half minutes for Juancho Hernangomez. – 10:44 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Like to see Boston run some stuff to get Pritchard and Nesmith some good looks. Anything to get them feeling good. – 10:44 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Tatum is Tatuming all over the Blazers.
13 points on 4-of-5 shooting. – 10:42 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Tatum’s handle the last couple of weeks has been a lot tighter than it was to open the season. – 10:42 PM Abby Chin @tvabby
The ONLY negative of the #Celtics first quarter in Portland was Rob Williams early foul trouble. Sorry @Chris Forsberg! – 10:41 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Payton Pritchard opens at PG to start Q2. Schroder went the full 12 minutes in Q1. Grant went the full Q1 too. – 10:41 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Celtics lead 38-23 after one
Schroder – 10 points
Tatum – 7 points
Celtics – 73.7% shooting
Celtics – 6-8 three-pointers
Celtics – 4 turnovers
Nurkic – 10 points
McCollum – 6 points
Blazers – 33.3% shooting
Blazers – 0-5 three-pointers
Blazers – 2 turnovers – 10:39 PM John Karalis @John_Karalis
Well that was a pretty good first quarter. The Celtics fouled too much and they gave up their trademark opponent run to close the quarter, but they’re still up 17 thanks to 73.7% shooting. – 10:39 PM Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
The Celtics scored 87 points in a Wednesday night win over the Sixers.
They’ve scored 168 in the 5 quarters since.
They lead 38-23 after 1 in Portland.
They made 12 straight shots over a 8:45 span midway through the quarter. – 10:39 PM Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
12 minutes in.
#RipCity pic.twitter.com/1EOa4gzd39 – 10:38 PM

Boston Celtics @celtics
Hot start 🔥 pic.twitter.com/skGps9j8ES – 10:38 PM

Chris Grenham @chrisgrenham
Celtics put up 38 points in the first quarter — that’s their second-highest point total in a quarter this season. – 10:38 PM Casey Holdahl @CHold
Celtics 38, Blazers 23: end of first quarter.e 10 points, 2 rebounds for @Jusuf Nurkic. 6 points, 1 assist for @CJ McCollum. POR shooting 33 percent, BOS 74 percent. – 10:37 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Grant Williams missed a 3-pointer which got a mocking clap from a few fans. Prior to the miss, Boston had made 14 of its first 15 shot attempts. – 10:35 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
I want Boston to have a 3/4 court heave, because I just assume it would go in tonight. – 10:35 PM Adam Himmelsbach @AdamHimmelsbach
This is getting insane lol. The Celtics haven’t missed a shot in nearly 8 minutes.
They’re now 14 for 15 overall, 6 for 7 on threes and 4 for 4 from the line. – 10:34 PM Jay King @ByJayKing
The Celtics are really 14 for 15 from the field. They’re drilling anything and everything. – 10:34 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Portland went to a zone because nothing else was working. – 10:34 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
I’ve had this conversation on @TheGardenReport w/the guys about whether Grant Williams should start in place of Al. The thinking is that it’ll strengthen the bench and better balance out the first unit. What do you think? – 10:34 PM Chris Grenham @chrisgrenham
The Celtics are 12-of-13 from the floor. Shooting 92.3% is a good strategy, IMO. – 10:31 PM Mike Richman @mikegrich
Nine minutes into the game, the Blazers are down 17 and the Celtics are shooting 92% from the floor. This team is a mess in every way. – 10:31 PM John Karalis @John_Karalis
A Grant Williams floater???? – 10:31 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
I’m with Chauncey Billups right there. If Grant Williams is hitting you with the pump fake followed by a baseline floater… pic.twitter.com/jyD5yztiQ0 – 10:30 PM John Karalis @John_Karalis
Great job by Aaron Nesmith doing the little things with his defense and passing – 10:30 PM Jay King @ByJayKing
Not sure the Blazers want to be here. – 10:30 PM Sean Highkin @highkin
For what it’s worth: not sold out but considerably bigger crowd than there’s been this season. Could be due to Celtics fans traveling well, could be due to other things. Who can say pic.twitter.com/FuKlit1xvp – 10:29 PM

Adam Himmelsbach @AdamHimmelsbach
All 28 Celtics points in the first 8 minutes have come on 3s, paint attempts, and free throws. – 10:29 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Portland’s defense is in theory.
Not good in theory. Just the concept of playing defense at all in theory. – 10:28 PM Chris Forsberg @ChrisForsberg_
Ime Udoka has gone against all three of the teams he’s previously coached over the past 10 days. Now a homecoming in Portland. And not just for him but most of his staff.
About as close to a “home” game for the Celtics as they’ll see on this trip. pic.twitter.com/VcUb4U6aaf – 10:28 PM

Boston Celtics @celtics
Too smooth 💦 pic.twitter.com/ULCtrGPsV0 – 10:27 PM

John Karalis @John_Karalis
That was the quickest release on a Grant Williams 3-pointer that I’ve ever seen – 10:27 PM Jay King @ByJayKing
The Celtics open 9 for 10 from the field. Sort of like last night’s game never stopped, except I guess this time Mike Conley and Donovan Mitchell aren’t fireballing the Cs. – 10:27 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Grant Williams with the catch-and-shoot 3-ball? pic.twitter.com/vyixA3v4ji – 10:27 PM Sean Highkin @highkin
CJ McCollum stole a rebound from Freedom. – 10:27 PM Adam Himmelsbach @AdamHimmelsbach
Celtics shooting 90 percent from the field and 80 percent from 3. If this holds up, they might have a shot. – 10:26 PM Sean Highkin @highkin
Nurkic gets past Freedom with a spin move and scores. – 10:26 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
First quarter minutes for Aaron Nesmith.
Not a ton of offense on the floor for Boston right now. Need Schroder and Richardson to create for this group. – 10:26 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Blazers in the bonus for the final 5:53 of the first quarter. – 10:26 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
That’s a good take by Schroder. McLemore can’t guard him off the bounce. – 10:25 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Marcus Smart deflection, dive on the floor, leads to a Celtics defensive stop, followed by a Smart driving lay-up. #ballfindsenergy – 10:24 PM Sean Highkin @highkin
Jusuf Nurkic scores over Freedom again. – 10:24 PM Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
Big fella going to work pic.twitter.com/nAat3GEJ6h – 10:23 PM

A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
The Celtics open with a 14-7 run, shooting 5-for-6 from the field, leading to a Blazers time-out with 7:47 to play in the first quarter. – 10:22 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
If every Celtics player is rocking a headband, it bums me out that Horford isn’t playing tonight. Headband Al would be a new one! – 10:22 PM Mark Murphy @Murf56
Jayson Tatum 2-2, 7 points in his first 4 minutes – 10:21 PM John Karalis @John_Karalis
Tatum struggled at the rim earlier this year, partly because he was getting challenged a lot. Over his last few games, Tatum has found his way to more uncontested layups – 10:21 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Tatum was great last night at Utah. That’s carried over tonight. Once again, everything has been pretty quick. No 10-dribble moves into a fallaway. He’s getting it and going. – 10:21 PM Casey Holdahl @CHold
Nurk gets Portland’s first field goal on a nifty move at the basket past Freedom – 10:20 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Jayson Tatum and Marcus Smart’s two-man (passing) game is creating great looks offensively thus far. But to put it in perspective, they are facing a Blazers squad that has the NBA’s second-worst defensive rating (111.8) this season. – 10:20 PM Boston Celtics @celtics
When in doubt, lob to Rob pic.twitter.com/9UL250qyac – 10:19 PM

Sean Highkin @highkin
Jusuf Nurkic scores over Freedom – 10:19 PM Sean Highkin @highkin
Blazers fans cheering loudly for Freedom – 10:16 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Portland’s game plan thus far – attack, attack, attack – has been effective in terms of creating fouls. Boston has 3 fouls committed in the game’s first 1:15. – 10:15 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Three trips for Portland. Three fouls for the Celtics. – 10:14 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Celtics are team headband tonight. Whole starting five is wearing one. – 10:13 PM Chris Grenham @chrisgrenham
Very important update:
The entire Celtics starting lineup is wearing headbands. – 10:13 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Robert Williams scores the game’s first points off – what else? – a lob dunk. – 10:13 PM Mike Tokito @mtokito
That’s cool that Blazers Broadcasting aired a @brookeolzendam interview with Ime Udoka, really acknowledging what a special thing his first head coaching game here is. – 10:12 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Five seconds into the game and the Celtics have turned the ball over. #notagoodstart – 10:11 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
You know it’s not just another game when you’re the visiting coach (Ime Udoka) and you get a nice round of applause from the crowd. Before tonight’s game, Ime Udoka acknowledged this one “means a little more” because Udoka, who is from Portland, Oregon, is home. – 10:10 PM Sean Highkin @highkin
Big cheers for Portland native Ime Udoka introduced as the Celtics’ head coach. – 10:07 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Put the kids to bed, turn the lights down low…it’s time for Celtics After Dark. – 10:05 PM Jon Krawczynski @JonKrawczynski
Jayson Tatum laughs off selfish label but knows he has to play better for the Celtics: ‘It’s going to be all right’
— great read here from ⁦@Jay King⁩ on the sluggish start for the Celtics star theathletic.com/2996822/2021/1… – 10:04 PM Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
Starting 5 for Pride Night!
1⃣0⃣ @Dennis Smith
3⃣ @CJ McCollum
2⃣4⃣ @Norman Powell
3⃣3⃣ @Robert Covington
2⃣7⃣ @bosnianbeast27
#RipCity | @stormxio pic.twitter.com/QaZYmFnjVa – 9:56 PM

A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Some of the seasonal numbers on tonight’s starting five for the Celtics (Smart; Schröder; Tatum; G. Williams; R.Williams)
GP: 7
ORtg: 97.1
DRtg: 107.0
Min: 32 – 9:56 PM Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
Since 2000, the Celtics have won 45% of their road games, but 65% of their games at the Moda Center.
It’s their 3rd best record in any city in the new millennium.
Minnesota 15-6
New York 29-13
PORTLAND 13-7
Charlotte 22-12
Memphis 12-8 – 9:31 PM Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
Celtics at Blazers – Moda Center – December 4, 2021 – Starters
Boston – Smart, Schroder, Tatum, G. Williams, R. Williams
Portland – Dennis Smith, CJ McCollum, Norman Powell, Robert Covington, Jusef Nurkic
OUT: Boston: Brown, Horford, Langford Portland: Lillard, Simons, Little pic.twitter.com/jeuIgJJZrE – 9:24 PM

Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
🏀 #RipCity  vs @Boston Celtics
7:00PM
📺 @ROOTSPORTS_NW | https://t.co/yBftNpfldh
📻 @RipCityRadio620 pic.twitter.com/DJH4gAuNRy – 9:22 PM

A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Enes Kanter Freedom supporters came out early to see him. And he rewarded them by spending time with them before tonight’s game. This was one of two sections with a sizeable amount of Enes fans. pic.twitter.com/aGCjuji7OW – 9:16 PM

Paul Garcia @PaulGarciaNBA
Update: Spurs’ largest leads in last 4 games:
vs BOS: +24
vs WAS: +18
@ POR: +31
@ GSW: +22 (a while ago) – 9:12 PM Boston Celtics @celtics
Starters for tonight pic.twitter.com/UIfvvKceZI – 9:12 PM

Boston Celtics @celtics
As we look to respond tonight against the Blazers, Enes Freedom discusses his return to Portland and the importance of coming out and setting the tone early. pic.twitter.com/oW7zGelEW0 – 9:09 PM

Boston Celtics @celtics
New city, new vibe #JetBlueRunway pic.twitter.com/8q4xBLjtPI – 9:03 PM

Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
Your Ime Udoka Portland story of the day…
His mother, pregnant with him at the time, attended the Blazers’ NBA Championship parade in 1977.
So he tells people he was there as well. – 8:59 PM Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
Masked Norm pic.twitter.com/rFWJundTcw – 8:56 PM

Paul Garcia @PaulGarciaNBA
Spurs’ largest lead in last 4 games:
vs BOS: +24
vs WAS: +18
@ POR: +31
@ GSW: +19 (right now) – 8:56 PM Sean Highkin @highkin
Norman Powell: Masked Edition pic.twitter.com/iPilcnoq8R – 8:50 PM

Marc Stein @TheSteinLine
Around-the-league notes column for your around-the-league NBA viewing tonight. Featuring:
🏀 Denver’s Michael Porter Jr. plight and an influential MPJ superfan …
🏀 Injuries leaguewide …
🏀 Question of the Week …
🏀 Portland latest + more!
marcstein.substack.com/p/weekend-dime… – 8:47 PM Sean Highkin @highkin
Damian Lillard and Bill Schonley pic.twitter.com/qjEKx5GfOT – 8:46 PM

Boston Celtics @celtics
Ime Udoka says of coaching his first game in his home town of Portland, “For myself personally, it’s good to be back and see family and friends – briefly – but also handle business.” – 8:43 PM A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
Jaylen Brown (hamstring) and Al Horford (back) are out tonight vs Portland as well as Romeo Langford (ankle). – 8:42 PM Brian Robb @BrianTRobb
Celtics will start Schroder, Smart, Tatum, Grant Williams and Rob Williams – 8:42 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Celtics starters tonight:
Robert Williams
Grant Williams
Jayson Tatum
Marcus Smart
Dennis Schroder – 8:42 PM John Karalis @John_Karalis
Staring lineup tonight will be Schröder, Smart, Tatum, and both Williamses – 8:42 PM Jay King @ByJayKing
Ime Udoka said Grant Williams and Dennis Schroder will both start tonight with Jaylen Brown and Al Horford out. – 8:42 PM Boston Celtics @celtics
#NEBHInjuryReport Ime Udoka confirms that Romeo Langford (right ankle sprain) will not play tonight in Portland. – 8:41 PM Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
Romeo Langford is officially out tonight, joining Jaylen Brown and Al Horford. – 8:40 PM John Karalis @John_Karalis
Romeo Langford is out tonight – 8:40 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Romeo Langford is out tonight, per Ime Udoka. – 8:40 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Ime Udoka said Jaylen Brown “really fought me to play tonight”. But the team wants to get him back to 100% and not take a risk with Brown. Hoping he may go in Los Angeles next week. – 8:37 PM Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
Ime: Jaylen “really fought me hard” to play tonight, but we’re looking more at the big picture. – 8:37 PM Boston Celtics @celtics
Ime Udoka says Jaylen Brown really fought hard to play tonight but the team is taking “the big-picture approach” with his hamstring. – 8:37 PM Brian Robb @BrianTRobb
Jaylen Brown fought Ime Udoka ‘hard’ to play tonight according to Udoka but team didn’t want to take the chance. Wants to get him back at 100 percent. – 8:37 PM John Karalis @John_Karalis
Ime Udoka says Al Horford probably could have played tonight but they’re being cautious. He says Jaylen Brown really fought hard to play in this game, but they’re taking the big picture approach. – 8:37 PM Jay King @ByJayKing
Ime Udoka said Romeo Langford had some swelling and soreness today. Al Horford had some back tightness. He probably could have played, but the Celtics were cautious on the second leg of a back to back. Udoka said Brown fought him to play, but didn’t win that fight. – 8:37 PM Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Ime Udoka said Al Horford probably could have played tonight, but the Celtics want to be careful on a back-to-back and while on a road trip. – 8:36 PM Casey Holdahl @CHold
Big Oregon vibes on the newest colorway of @CJ McCollum‘s signature sneaker, the @LiNingHoops CJ1 pic.twitter.com/dV149355rJ – 8:29 PM

Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
With three significant injuries in the backcourt (Lillard, Simons, Little), Dennis Smith Jr. will start at the point for the Blazers tonight against Boston.
He started nine games for Dallas last year after being traded from the Knicks. – 8:24 PM Jay Allen @PDXjay
Chauncey Billups says Norman Powell broke his nose during a one-one-one workout yesterday at practice. Says Powell will likely be wearing a mask tonight against Boston. – 8:22 PM Aaron J. Fentress @AaronJFentress
Chauncey Billups just said that Dennis Smith Jr. will start at point guard against Boston with Damian Lillard and Anfernee Simons out. #RipCity – 8:21 PM Jay Allen @PDXjay
Dennis Smith Jr. will start at PG for the #Blazers tonight against the Celtics. – 8:21 PM Chris Fedor @ChrisFedor
I can’t really come up with a good argument to put Notre Dame in over Georgia. – 8:07 PM Casey Holdahl @CHold
Dame in the @adidas Basketball Dame 7 EXT “Sully” pic.twitter.com/lxHXFjAHIi – 7:45 PM

Boston Celtics @celtics
Have you seen today’s deal yet?
Check https://t.co/nViTeRGhJT every day to see what new deal has been unlocked. pic.twitter.com/oWJQDAgo8Y – 7:19 PM

Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
Tonight’s Gameday Poster:
🎨 by @Sparkykneecap pic.twitter.com/tafUe0HWYc – 7:00 PM

The Ringer @ringernba
Is it time for the Blazers to break up Dame and CJ? @Kevin O’Connor takes a look on #TheVoidNBA. pic.twitter.com/phW4QkxXSl – 6:11 PM Portland Trail Blazers @trailblazers
Damian Lillard, Larry Nance Jr. & the Trail Blazers organization welcomes you to our Annual Pride Night Celebration. Follow along on social or open the Trail Blazers app to see how you can get involved! 🏳‍🌈 pic.twitter.com/9aSZH29P7I – 6:00 PM

Alvaro Martin @AlvaroNBAMartin
Cada vez que se rompe una barrera como lo hizo anoche Beth Mowins, se produce un momento incómodo. ¿Por qué no derribaron la barrera antes, hace mucho tiempo?
pic.twitter.com/kT7wNW8zR3
📸@NBA – 5:44 PM

Greg Brown @gb3elite
Yes Sir #RipCity It’s Game Day!!! pic.twitter.com/8cHnHcdXU9 – 5:29 PM

Boston Celtics @celtics
TONIGHT Celtics at @Portland Trail Blazers
10PM
📺 @NBCSBoston
🎙 @985TheSportsHub
#BleedGreen pic.twitter.com/OaA09X6DUb – 4:41 PM

John Karalis @John_Karalis
Danny Ainge is totally taking Alex Barcello in the second round if he takes the Portland job – 4:31 PM Mark Murphy @Murf56
Per Celtics: Jaylen Brown (hamstring) and Al Horford (lower back) are both out tonight vs. Portland. Romeo Langford (ankle) questionable. – 4:24 PM Casey Holdahl @CHold
Team abnounces that @Norman Powell has suffered a “nasal fracture” though he’s probable for tonight’s game versus Celtics. – 4:12 PM Jamie Hudson @JamieHudson_
Celtics Injury Report:
Romeo Langford (right ankle; sprain) is questionable.
Jaylen Brown (right hamstring; tightness) and Al Horford (Low back; stiffness) are out vs. Blazers tonight. – 4:06 PM