Boston Celtics vs Toronto Raptors: Three Stars of the night

Boston Celtics (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
Boston Celtics (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
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Boston Celtics
Boston Celtics (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)

1 Star Winner- Gordon Hayward

The first winner of the night was the toughest to pick. Jayson Tatum should not be overlooked here. The 2nd year star picked himself up a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Jaylen Brown and Terry Rozier both had themselves quality nights in the box score plus/minus, garnering a +10 and +8, respectively.

But it was Gordon Hayward that kept the C’s afloat in the 1st half of play. Hayward scored 14 of his 18 points tonight in the first 24 minutes, arguably the best and most efficient minutes as a Celtic. He notched 5 assists and tied Brown with a game-high +10 plus/minus.

Oh, and he about broke Danny Green‘s ankles with this vicious step-back late in the first half.

Since the turn of the new year, Hayward has really picked up his game. More than anything, his consistent play has given the Celtics new life. It is performances like tonight that give Celtics fans hope looking ahead to the playoffs.