Instant Analysis: Boston Celtics Tap Into Championship Mode To End Cavaliers' 15-0 Start

After starting the season with 15 straight victories, the Cleveland Cavaliers suffered their first defeat, falling 120-117 to the reigning champion Boston Celtics on the road. This loss means Cleveland won’t secure sole possession of the second-longest season-opening winning streak in NBA history. Instead, they remain tied with the 1993-94 Houston Rockets and the 1948-49 Washington Capitols.

Boston, now 12-3, appeared poised to dominate from the outset. The Celtics built a commanding 17-point halftime lead, fueled by an impressive 14-of-22 shooting performance from beyond the arc. However, Cleveland refused to fold. A late 18-3 run in the third quarter tightened the contest, and the Cavaliers managed to cut the lead to just two points on five separate occasions. 

Despite their resilience, Cleveland couldn’t get over the hump, never managing to tie the game in the second half. Jayson Tatum was the star tonight, posting 33 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists to prove he is the best player on the floor alongside Donovan Mitchell who dropped 35 points and 8 rebounds. 

Evan Mobley dropped 22 points and Carig Porter Jr. dropped 15, but no other player on the Cavaliers scored at least 15 points. Meanwhile, Tatum had help from Jaylen Brown (17 points, 8 assists), Al Horford (20 points), and Derrick White (19 points). The Celtics came up with a major victory tonight, and let's provide an instant analysis to the keys of the game. 

The Celtics Proved They Have More Firepower Tonight 

Boston demonstrated why they’re still the most dangerous team in the league, showcasing offensive depth that Cleveland couldn’t match. The Celtics’ 3-point shooting set the tone early, with nearly every player contributing to a scorching 14-of-22 effort from beyond the arc in the first half. While Cleveland managed to make a push in the second half, Boston's offensive arsenal, led by Jayson Tatum, proved too potent to overcome.

Tatum's 33 points were complemented by strong performances from Jaylen Brown, Al Horford, and Derrick White. Horford's ability to stretch the floor with his shooting (4-5 3-PT FG) and White’s consistency in knocking down open looks (4-7 3-PT FG) kept Cleveland’s defense scrambling. Unlike Cleveland, Boston had multiple players step up when it mattered most, ensuring the Cavaliers never fully erased the deficit.

Cleveland’s supporting cast, in contrast, fell short. While Evan Mobley chipped in 22 points and Craig Porter Jr added 15 (3-3 3-PT FG), the drop-off in scoring from the rest of the roster left Donovan Mitchell without the help he needed to complete the comeback. The disparity in firepower highlighted the gap between the two teams and underscored Boston’s depth as a key advantage in both this game and their pursuit of NBA Cup dominance.

Jayson Tatum And Donovan Mitchell Played Like Major MVP Candidates

Both Tatum and Mitchell put on a show, reminding fans why they’re considered among the league’s elite. Tatum’s stat line—33 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists—showcased his ability to dominate in every aspect of the game. He controlled the tempo, made critical plays on both ends of the floor, and delivered clutch moments when the Celtics needed them most.

Mitchell was equally brilliant, scoring 35 points to keep Cleveland within striking distance. His aggressive drives to the basket and timely 3-point shooting provided a spark for the Cavaliers, particularly during their second-half surge. Mitchell’s ability to carry the offense against a tough Boston defense proved why he’s firmly in the MVP conversation this season.

The duel between these two stars was a treat for fans, but Tatum’s superior support cast ultimately tipped the scales in Boston’s favor. While Mitchell often had to create on his own, Tatum benefited from a team that could capitalize on his playmaking. This game was a reminder that MVP-caliber performances can only carry a team so far without the help of a well-rounded roster.

The Streak Was Never Going To Last

Cleveland’s historic start was bound to end eventually, and there’s no shame in losing to a team as strong as the Celtics. The Cavaliers showed grit and determination, clawing their way back into the game after falling behind by 21 points in the third quarter. However, sustaining a streak like this in the modern NBA, with its parity and competitive scheduling, is nearly impossible.

Boston’s dominance in the first half exposed some of Cleveland’s weaknesses, particularly their reliance on Mitchell and Mobley for consistent scoring. When the Cavaliers’ offense stagnated, the Celtics took advantage, building a lead that Cleveland could never quite overcome. 

While the streak may be over, Cleveland has plenty to be proud of—and plenty to learn from. This loss can serve as motivation moving forward, helping them focus on building a more balanced attack and shoring up defensive lapses. For now, the Cavaliers must regroup quickly because breaking the 2016-17 Warriors streak of 25 straight games unbeaten is now a dream of the past.