The Boston Celtics defeated the visiting Cleveland Cavaliers Thursday night 116-107, overcoming a performance marred by turnovers and fouls. While Boston shot the ball well, these hiccups allowed Cleveland to remain close throughout the game. This, in part, encouraged head coach Joe Mazzulla to turn to Lamar Stevens for support off the bench.
Stevens is a lengthy wing who joined Boston in September and has made a name for himself on the defensive side of the ball since entering the NBA in 2020. With the Celtics he has seen inconsistent playing time, appearing in only a handful of games thus far on the year. Against Cleveland, Stevens played well, making a few plays and fitting into the defense despite such an unclear role.
After the game, Stevens was asked about making the most of Thursday’s opportunity and what goes into meshing with his new teammates.
Celtics grab gritty wire-to-wire win as Boston bests Cleveland 116-107 https://t.co/fX4LmjYyXA pic.twitter.com/jr64WUtf4u
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) December 15, 2023
“It’s just really gelling with the guys,” Stevens said. “You know, not having those reps in game, some things just take time to gel and figure out what guys like to do and where guys like to be.”
Following the game, Celtics star Jayson Tatum lauded Stevens and the rest of Boston’s reserves, calling the “stay ready group” for how much preparation and hard work they put in. Stevens, meanwhile, was complimentary of guys like Tatum for setting him up for success.
“It’s an easy-going group, when I’m on the floor, guys are talking to me constantly and trying to just help me make sure I’m doing all the right things.”
Connecticut Sun announce plans for game at TD Garden this summer as WNBA star Brionna Jones mingles with Jaylen Brown https://t.co/LDDVmCkMqc pic.twitter.com/DTyZFOVzvC
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) December 15, 2023
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