It wasn’t enough to power the Celtics past the red-hot Rockets ... that’s big time. And Luke was great.” Kornet wasn’t afraid to battle down low against Houston’s physical defense.

When Boston needed a stop, the calls the Celtics coach made proved disastrous, and afterward took responsibility for the loss: "I didn't help them close it at the end."

Joe Mazzulla took the blame for the late-game miscues, saying he put his players in poor position but it was evident that Horford’s absence proved costly in that spot since Kornet has not played in crunch time for much of the season.

Houston Rockets' Alperen Sengun (28) goes up for a shot as Boston Celtics' Derrick White (9) and Luke Kornet defend during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) AP

The Boston Celtics lost in the final moments of the game as a Amen Thompson buzzer-beater lifted the Houston Rockets to a 114-112 victory

Amen Thompson hit a game-winning floater with 0.7 seconds left and finished with 33 points to lead the Houston Rockets to a 114-112 victory over the Boston Celtics on Monday night.

Just before the Rockets inbounded the ball, Brown and Kornet played hot ... better and more prepared on Houston's last possession. "They were trying to go at Luke. I should have sniffed it out ...

Luke Kornet had 18 and Kristaps Porzingis scored ... with 0.7 seconds left and finished with 33 points to lead the Houston Rockets to a 114-112 victory over the Boston Celtics on Monday night.

Ime Udoka's Rockets were effective in limiting Tatum in the Celtics' loss Monday, but Joe Mazzulla's team adjusted and thrived in beating the Bulls.

W ith the trade deadline quickly approaching, it is time to think about the potential moves that the Celtics can make this year. Last year’s deadline saw Brad Stevens make two m

As the trade deadline approaches, here are five thoughts on where the Celtics are at and where they might improve.