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Celtics-Cavs recap: C's topple unbeaten Cleveland in gutsy 120-117 win

Boston staved off a furious Cavs rally to hand Cleveland its first loss of the season.

By Justin Leger, Chris Forsberg, Celtics Insider, Nick Goss and Darren Hartwell • Published November 19, 2024 • Updated on November 20, 2024 at 9:53 am

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What to Know

Boston moves to 12-3, while the Cavs suffer their first loss to fall to 15-1.
Jayson Tatum dominated with 33 points, 12 rebounds, seven assists and two steals.
Al Horford posted a season-high 20 points along with seven rebounds and three blocks.
The Celtics are now 1-1 in Group C of the NBA Cup.

BOSTON – The reigning NBA champions cooled off the league's hottest team Tuesday night at TD Garden.

The Celtics jumped out to a 21-point lead over undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers, then withstood a furious Cavs rally in the second half to emerge with a 120-117 win that handed the visitors their first loss of the 2024-25 season.

The victory moves Boston to 12-3 on the season and drops the Cavs to 15-1. The C’s are now 1-1 in Group C of the NBA Cup after falling to the Atlanta Hawks in their first group stage game last Tuesday.

Check out our full game recap below for highlights, analysis and more.