Celtics Crush Bucks Despite Missing Starters
The Boston Celtics delivered a resounding win over the Milwaukee Bucks despite missing two starters, fueled by a career night from rookie Jordan Walsh. Walsh stepped up impressively to help Boston dominate a Bucks squad that's been shaky on defense lately. The win keeps Boston jockeying for playoff positioning while managing rotation injuries.
While the rookie focus was on Jordan Walsh, it was actually two other players who powered the short-handed Celtics. Payton Pritchard led all scorers with 25 points, and rookie Hugo González delivered a true career night with 18 points and 16 rebounds in the 108-81 victory on March 2, 2026. The decisive 27-point road win came without key starters Jayson Tatum, who is recovering from a right Achilles repair, and Jaylen Brown, who was out with a non-COVID illness. Their absence created an opportunity for players like Pritchard and González to step into larger offensive roles. Jordan Walsh, a 2023 second-round pick known more for his defensive energy, actually had a quiet offensive game, finishing with 0 points in 16 minutes of play. The 6-foot-7 forward from Arkansas was drafted for his defensive versatility and has spent time developing in the G-League. The victory spoiled the return of Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, who had 19 points and 11 rebounds after missing over a month with a right calf strain. His presence wasn't enough to solve Milwaukee's recent defensive issues. Milwaukee's defense has struggled this season, ranking in the bottom third of the league with a defensive rating of 117.6. The loss dropped the Bucks' record to 26-34, further complicating their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race.
