Lakers Complete Dramatic Comeback Against Celtics in Boston Garden Thriller

The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off one of the most dramatic comebacks of the NBA season, overturning a 19-point deficit to defeat the Boston Celtics 118-115 in overtime at TD Garden on Tuesday night. LeBron James led the charge with 38 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists in what many are calling a vintage performance from the 41-year-old superstar.

The Celtics appeared to be cruising to victory, leading 89-70 with just over 10 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. Jayson Tatum had been dominant throughout the game, scoring 42 points on efficient shooting, while Jaylen Brown added 28 points. However, the Lakers' championship experience began to show as they methodically chipped away at the deficit.

"We've been in these situations before," said James after the game. "Championship teams find ways to win games like this. Our young guys stepped up big time, and we never stopped believing." Austin Reaves was crucial in the comeback, hitting three consecutive three-pointers during a pivotal stretch that cut the lead to single digits with four minutes remaining.

The game went to overtime after Anthony Davis blocked Tatum's potential game-winning shot with 2.3 seconds left in regulation. In the extra period, the Lakers outscored Boston 13-10, with James hitting the go-ahead three-pointer with 47 seconds remaining. The victory improves the Lakers' record to 34-18, keeping them firmly in playoff contention.

For the Celtics, the loss was particularly stinging given their commanding position late in the game. Coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged his team's execution issues down the stretch, noting that they became too predictable on offense and failed to maintain their defensive intensity. The defeat drops Boston to 42-10, though they maintain their position atop the Eastern Conference standings.

The game featured several technical fouls and heated exchanges between players, adding to the intensity of this historic rivalry. With both teams likely to meet again in the playoffs, Tuesday's thriller served as a preview of what could be an epic postseason matchup between two of the NBA's most storied franchises.