Takeaways from Lakers-Celtics: LeBron James injury puts hitch in Lakers' title hopes

The NBA's greatest rivalry was renewed on Saturday when the Celtics hosted the Lakers.

Here are three takeaways from Boston's 111-101 win.

Celtics still the class of the NBA

The defending champs responded from an early eight-point deficit to win their fourth consecutive game. Boston's star duo, shooting guard Jaylen Brown and small forward Jayson Tatum, combined for 71 points.

Tatum had 40 points, giving him three 40-point regular-season games against the Lakers, the most in Celtics franchise history. (h/t Stathead) He added 12 rebounds, eight assists, two steals and a block to remind everyone that he might be the NBA's most underappreciated superstar.

Brown's 31 points were his third-most against the Lakers in 16 regular-season games. The 2024 Finals MVP also chipped in with six rebounds, two assists and three steals as the Celtics turned up the defensive intensity after following the opening 12 minutes.

The Celtics have stiff competition in their repeat quest, namely from the red-hot Cavaliers (53-10, first in Eastern Conference), who've won 13 in a row, and the Thunder (52-11, first in Western Conference), riding a six-game winning streak. But unlike those teams, Boston's core has years of playoff experience. With the regular season entering its final month, the Celtics are as formidable as ever.

LeBron James injury puts Lakers' title dreams on pause

James suffered a groin injury early in the fourth quarter and did not return. After the game, ESPN NBA reporter Dave McMenamin shared, "One source said that initial thought is that it will sideline James for a matter of weeks, not a matter of days."