Paul George is finally doing exactly what the Celtics needed him to do. He isn’t trying to out-scorer Jayson Tatum on Tuesday night. Instead, he provided the balance and decision-making that lets Boston survive tight games. According to NESN, George finished with 20 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists in a 125-124 overtime win over the Brooklyn Nets.
The Celtics have won three straight games since losing to Detroit. Tatum hit the game-winning jumper with zero turnovers, but he needed help to get there. Late in the fourth quarter, Boston faced near defeat after the Nets seized a five-point advantage. Brooklyn even forced overtime with a last-second three-pointer from Mikel Brown Jr. Without George’s steady hand, Boston might have folded under that pressure. He gave the team a second reliable scoring option when the game stayed close all night.
Why George’s Seven Assists Matter More Than Points
Everyone expects Tatum to score. The team already knows what happens when the offense runs through him. Tuesday offered a clear reminder of that dynamic. Tatum produced 40 points and eight assists without a turnover while playing 42 minutes. He missed most of last season after rupturing his right Achilles tendon. He recognized openings, moved the basketball, and made decisions without needing the offense to reset. Yahoo Sports noted that his seven assists demonstrated why his role extends beyond being another perimeter scoring option.
When Tatum is double-teamed, the ball must move. George’s ability to handle those difficult stretches gives Boston another option when the offense gets stuck. The Celtics do not need George to score 40 points alongside Tatum every night. An experienced decision-maker who contributes across several categories is what they need him to provide. While Jordan Walsh contributed 15 and Derrick White added 16 points, His health remains important too. He played 25 minutes on Monday during a blowout over Chicago and was ready to go again on Tuesday despite the back-to-back schedule.
A New Roster Fits Together Better Than Expected
Championship-era combinations that fans watched previously do not match how the roster looks now. Tatum is the foundation the Celtics are building around, with George and Mitchell Robinson among the important pieces. Against teams like the Nets in close games, that process becomes particularly interesting. Multiple players provided contributions for Boston before Tatum ultimately decided the outcome. The team is working to integrate the new‑look group, and George is taking on a key role. Even as Boston resumes play on Friday versus Chicago for NBA Cup action, Tuesday’s lesson is already evident.
Tatum provided an unforgettable conclusion, yet George supplied the balance needed for the Celtics to cross the line. Tatum shot 10-of-20 from the field and converted 18 of his 22 free-throw attempts. Those numbers illustrate more than just scoring ability. Through a demanding night, he maintained his decision‑making, handled defensive attention, and created offense. George’s 20 points were just as vital in a game that remained close throughout. With the Celtics facing 16 back-to-backs this season, overseeing the health of Tatum, George, and Robinson stays vital to their strategy.
