Jayson Tatum Drops 42 as Celtics Defeat Nuggets 118-109

Jayson Tatum erupted for 42 points, including 16 in the fourth quarter, as the Boston Celtics rallied from a 12-point deficit to defeat the Denver Nuggets 118-109 at Ball Arena on Sunday night in what many considered a potential NBA Finals preview.

The All-Star forward was magnificent when it mattered most, shooting 6-of-8 from the field in the final frame while orchestrating Boston's comeback. Tatum's performance included seven three-pointers and showcased the elite scoring ability that has made him one of the league's most dangerous offensive weapons.

"Jayson was incredible tonight," said Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla. "He took over the game when we needed him most. That's what superstars do, and he's proven time and again that he's ready for those moments."

Jaylen Brown provided excellent support with 24 points and 8 rebounds, while Derrick White added 18 points off the bench. The Celtics shot 48% from three-point range as a team, with their perimeter shooting proving to be the difference in a high-quality contest.

For Denver, Nikola Jokic recorded his 45th triple-double of the season with 28 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists, but the reigning MVP couldn't prevent his team from suffering just their eighth home loss of the campaign. Jamal Murray contributed 25 points, though he struggled with his shot selection in crucial moments.

The victory improves Boston to 42-12 on the season, maintaining their position atop the Eastern Conference standings. With Tatum playing at this elite level and the supporting cast clicking, the Celtics continue to look like the team to beat as the playoffs approach. The loss drops Denver to 38-18, still comfortably positioned in the Western Conference but showing they have work to do before the postseason.