Celtics ruin Pat Riley Night with dominant win over Lakers
On February 22, the Boston Celtics crushed the Lakers 111-89, turning the spotlight away from the Pat Riley tribute at Crypto.com Arena with a full-court performance. Jaylen Brown poured in 32 points and Payton Pritchard added 30, torching L.A. with efficient shooting and defense.
Why it matters
Even non-hoops fans know the Lakers-Celtics rivalry, and a legend's night being hijacked by a blowout? That's peak sports theater. Plus Riley is Lakers royalty-so the sting was extra.
Details
It's Monday and the airwaves are still buzzing-Boston just spoiled what was meant to be one of L.A.'s signature moments.