Rockets vs Celtics: On January 27, 2025, the Houston Rockets stunned the Boston Celtics in a thrilling 114-112 win at TD Garden. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams exchanging momentum throughout the contest. However, it was the Rockets who emerged victorious, led by the incredible performances of Amen Thompson and Dillon Brooks.
Rockets vs Celtics: Amen Thompson’s Breakout Performance
The star of the game was undoubtedly Amen Thompson. The young Rockets guard put on a dazzling display, scoring a career-high 33 points. His performance was a perfect mix of efficiency and flair. Thompson made crucial plays all over the court, demonstrating his playmaking ability, scoring ability, and basketball IQ.
His crowning moment came in the final seconds of the game. With the Rockets trailing by one, Thompson calmly sank a floater with just 1.3 seconds remaining. This shot would prove to be the game-winner, giving Houston the lead they would not relinquish.
Thompson didn’t just score; he contributed in every aspect of the game. He also pulled down nine rebounds and dished out four assists, showing his versatility and commitment to doing whatever it took to win. His performance was not only a career high but also a statement to the rest of the league about his potential as a future star.
Dillon Brooks Steps Up
Dillon Brooks was another key contributor in the Rockets’ win. The forward had a massive game, scoring 36 points, including a career-best 10 three-pointers. His shooting was on fire all night, and he was instrumental in the Rockets’ comeback efforts.
Brooks’ shooting was particularly critical during the second half when Houston trailed by double digits. His ability to stretch the floor and make timely shots helped the Rockets slowly chip away at the Celtics’ lead. Brooks’ explosive performance reminded everyone of his offensive capabilities and solidified his importance to the team.
The Celtics’ Strong Start
The Celtics came out strong, showing their dominance early in the game. They quickly built a double-digit lead, with Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum leading the charge. Brown had a standout game, finishing with 28 points, showcasing his ability to score from all over the floor. His play was essential in Boston’s fast start and in maintaining their lead through the first half.
Tatum, despite a slower start, found his rhythm in the second half, contributing all 19 of his points after the break. His scoring ability kept the Celtics within striking distance, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win. Tatum’s performance showed flashes of his All-Star potential, but he struggled to close out the game when it mattered most.
Rockets vs Celtics: Injury Woes for Boston
The Celtics faced a significant challenge heading into this game, as they were without three key players: Derrick White, Sam Hauser, and Al Horford. These absences were felt throughout the game, as the team’s depth was tested. White’s absence, in particular, was a blow to the Celtics’ defensive schemes and offensive flow. Hauser’s shooting and Horford’s experience were also sorely missed.
With the roster shorthanded, the Celtics struggled to maintain their earlier rhythm, especially in the second half. The Rockets’ comeback was fueled by their defensive adjustments, which took advantage of Boston’s lack of depth and the absence of key players.
Rockets vs Celtics: The Rockets’ Comeback
Houston’s ability to fight back after being down by as much as 12 points in the fourth quarter was a testament to their resilience and determination. Thompson and Brooks took charge, with both players playing at an elite level. The Rockets’ defense stepped up when it mattered most, forcing turnovers and getting critical stops in the final minutes of the game.
The comeback was made possible by Houston’s shooting. With Brooks lighting up from beyond the arc and Thompson driving to the basket, the Rockets were able to whittle down the Celtics’ lead and eventually seize control of the game. The energy in TD Garden shifted as the Rockets closed in on the lead, and when Thompson hit the game-winning floater, the arena went silent.
The Final Moments: A Game of Inches
As the final seconds of the game ticked down, the Celtics had a chance to respond. With the game on the line, the Celtics quickly advanced the ball, but the Rockets’ defense was locked in. Despite a last-ditch effort by Tatum to drive to the basket, Houston held firm, and the clock expired with the Rockets on top.
The game-winning floater by Thompson was a perfect example of how every possession mattered. It was a moment of individual brilliance, but it was also a product of the entire team’s perseverance throughout the contest.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Both Teams
For the Houston Rockets, this victory is a significant morale boost. It’s a statement win, showing that they can compete with elite teams, even in tough environments like TD Garden. With young players like Thompson continuing to develop, the future looks bright for the Rockets. If they can maintain this level of play, they’ll be a team to watch as the season progresses.
For the Boston Celtics, this loss is a tough pill to swallow. They had the game in hand but couldn’t close it out, and the absence of key players made it even harder. However, the Celtics still have a strong team, and once White, Hauser, and Horford return, they will be in a better position to compete at the highest level. Their depth and experience will be critical in bouncing back from this defeat.
A Game to Remember
The Houston Rockets’ victory over the Boston Celtics was one of the most exciting games of the season so far. With standout performances from Thompson and Brooks, Houston showed that they are a team on the rise. The Celtics, on the other hand, will need to regroup and hope for a healthy lineup as they continue their pursuit of a championship.
Both teams showed heart, grit, and determination. This game will be remembered not only for its dramatic finish but also for the impressive individual efforts that made it one for the ages. Fans of both teams will certainly be looking forward to their next encounter.
