Celtics Extend Winning Streak to Four, Defeat Short-Handed Suns 97-81
PHOENIX, AZ – The Boston Celtics continued their strong form with a 97-81 victory over the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night, February 24, 2026, at the Mortgage Matchup Center. The win marks the Celtics’ fourth consecutive victory, all by double digits and improves their record to 38-19. The Suns, playing without several key players, fell to 33-26.
Celtics Thrive Despite Brown’s Absence
Boston secured the win despite being without All-Star forward Jaylen Brown, who sat out due to a right knee contusion [Boston Herald]. Derrick White led the Celtics in scoring with 22 points, adding eight rebounds, eight assists, three blocks, and one steal. Neemias Queta and Baylor Scheierman both recorded double-doubles, contributing significantly to Boston’s balanced attack.
Suns Struggle with Injuries and Shooting
The Suns were significantly hampered by injuries, missing Devin Booker (right hip strain), Dillon Brooks (left hand fracture), Jordan Goodwin (left calf strain), and Haywood Highsmith (right knee injury management) [Arizona Central]. Phoenix struggled offensively, shooting just 36.7% from the field and 12-of-36 on three-pointers. Collin Gillespie was the Suns’ leading scorer with 15 points.
Key Moments in the Game
After trailing early, the Celtics took control of the game with a dominant third quarter, outscoring the Suns 30-11. This surge extended a winning second quarter where Boston took the lead at halftime [Yahoo Sports]. Boston’s strong performance on the offensive boards, with 22 offensive rebounds leading to 15 second-chance points, proved crucial. The Celtics attempted 16 more shots and 11 more 3-pointers than Phoenix.
Standout Performances
Neemias Queta had a standout performance for the Celtics, recording 14 points and 13 rebounds, including 6 offensive rebounds and 2 blocks [Yahoo Sports]. Derrick White’s all-around contribution was also vital to Boston’s success.
Looking Ahead
The Celtics (38-19) are now 4.5 games behind the Detroit Pistons for the top seed in the Eastern Conference [Yahoo Sports]. The Suns (33-26) remain seventh in the Western Conference, just three games out of third place. The two teams will meet again on March 16 in Boston.