“Not in Our DNA”: Kristaps Porzingis on Celtics’ Humiliating Stretch After Statement Game vs Pelicans

The Boston Celtics finally bounced back from their humiliating stretch in Atlanta. Jayson Tatum and Co. got a statement win against the New Orleans Pelicans tonight as they blew them out 104-92. They improved to a 58-16 record and reasserted their dominance in the league. That was a much-needed win for Boston following their embarrassing back-to-back losses to the Hawks this week. Afterbounce back the game, Celtics Center Kristaps Porzingis chimed in on tonight’s dominant win against the Pelicans.

Kristaps Porzingis was not happy with his performance in the last game. He believed he did not play up to his level against the Hawks and that played a part in the Celtics’ loss. Back on track today, Porzingis revealed why it was important for the Celtics to bounce back and win tonight’s game. “Back-to-back losses to Atlanta, it’s not our DNA. It just didn’t sit right with us.” The Latvian star claimed even though the Celtics are in a comfortable spot, they want to stay hungry and compete at a high level in each game.

The Celtics have held on to the best record in the NBA for the majority of this season. And they want to carry that momentum into the playoffs. Thursday’s loss was extremely heartbreaking for Boston as they lost to a last-second game-winner from Dejounte Murray. Porzingis knows that other teams need these wins more than they do at this stage of the season. But that should not cause the Celtics to take a backseat right before the playoffs start.

The Boston Celtics’ comeback win

When tonight’s game started, it looked like the Celtics would suffer another humiliating road loss. Zion Williamson and Co. outscored them 37-28 in the first quarter. However, the Celtics were able to make the right adjustments in the second quarter to bounce back quickly. Porzingis revealed the team’s thoughts after the underwhelming first quarter, “We just knew we couldn’t be in cruise control.” Boston put up a solid team performance in tonight’s game, as all their starters scored in double digits. They also played great defense after the first quarter, limiting the Pelicans to only 92 points.

Kristaps Porzingis had another double-double with 19 points and 10 rebounds. He was also a menace on defense, with 4 blocks and 2 steals. Jayson Tatum also had a great game, finishing with 23 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists. The Celtics have a stacked roster with a deep bench this season and a legitimate chance to win the Championship. They cannot afford to lose sight of the goal so close to the playoffs. Kristaps Porzingis and Co. hope to continue playing like they did tonight and finish the season strong.

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