Celtics Crush Bucks 105-79
The Celtics dominated the Bucks 105-79 despite Giannis Antetokounmpo's return, with rookie Hugo Gonzalez making impactful plays like swatting shots. The 26-point blowout was a statement win for Boston in what could be a playoff preview between two Eastern Conference powerhouses.
This victory was particularly impressive as the Celtics were without their leading scorer, Jaylen Brown, who was sidelined with a non-COVID illness, and center Neemias Queta, who was resting. Boston has been without its other superstar, Jayson Tatum, for the entire 2025-26 season as he recovers from a right Achilles repair. Payton Pritchard led all scorers with 25 points off the bench for Boston, also adding nine assists. All five of the Celtics' starters scored in double figures, a testament to the team's depth and "next man up" mentality that has them sitting second in the Eastern Conference with a 41-20 record. For the Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 19 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in 25 minutes of play after missing 15 games with a right calf strain. Despite his return, Milwaukee struggled offensively and has now lost three consecutive games by 23 or more points, dropping their record to 26-34 on the season. The story of the night, however, was Spanish rookie Hugo Gonzalez. In just his third career start, the 28th overall pick from the 2025 draft recorded career-highs with 18 points and 16 rebounds. Gonzalez became just the second Celtics rookie guard to post at least 15 points and 15 rebounds in a game, joining Brian Shaw. This win gives the Celtics a 2-1 season series lead over the Bucks, with Boston winning four of the last five matchups between the two teams. The Celtics have now won three straight and seven of their last eight games. Looking ahead, the Celtics will return home to face the Charlotte Hornets. The Bucks, who are currently 11th in the East, will look to bounce back as they host the Atlanta Hawks.
