Celtics vs. Lakers draws record viewership in primetime matchup

The Boston Celtics’ 111-101 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on March 8 became the most-watched regular-season NBA game since the 2018 season (excluding Christmas), according to ESPN. The NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC broadcast averaged 4,605,000 viewers—an astounding 92% increase from the comparable game window last year.

Jayson Tatum exploded for 40 points on Saturday night, leading the Celtics to their hard-fought victory. With LeBron James in the locker room with a strained groin, the Lakers cut a 20-point deficit to single digits. Tatum and Jaylen Brown scored Boston’s final 12 points to preserve the win. Brown finished the game with 31, helping Boston claim their fourth straight win. Luka Doncic debuted against the Celtics for LA with 34 points and 8 rebounds, ensuring that the Celtics wouldn’t run away with the game. 

The game, aired across ABC, ESPN+, and Disney+, peaked with 5,342,000 viewers between 9:15-9:29 p.m. ET. It was also the most-watched program in primetime for Saturday, March 8.

As ESPN continues its coverage of marquee NBA matchups, the next NBA Saturday Primetime game will feature Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors hosting Karl-Anthony Towns and the New York Knicks on March 15 at 8:30 p.m. ET. The broadcast will be led by Mike Breen, with analysts Doris Burke and Richard Jefferson, and sideline reporting from Lisa Salters.