BOSTON (AP) — Sam Hauser made nine 3-pointers — seven in the third quarter — and finished with a career-high 33 points to lead the short-handed Boston Celtics past the Utah Jazz 114-108 on Monday night.
The Celtics were without several key players due to injury, but Hauser stepped up to fill the void, hitting 9 of 15 from beyond the arc. His seven 3-pointers in the third quarter helped the Celtics turn a deficit into a lead, and they were able to hold off the Jazz down the stretch.
Hauser's performance was a welcome sight for Celtics fans, who have been waiting for him to break out. The rookie has shown flashes of brilliance this season, but this was by far his best game.
The Jazz, on the other hand, were left to ponder what could have been. They had a strong first half, but were unable to keep up with Hauser's hot shooting in the third quarter. Despite a late push, they were unable to overcome the deficit.
The win was a much-needed boost for the Celtics, who have been struggling with injuries all season. With several key players still out, they will need more performances like Hauser's to stay afloat in the competitive Eastern Conference.
For Hauser, the performance was a dream come true. The rookie has worked hard to develop his game, and it's starting to pay off. As he continues to grow and develop, he could become a key contributor for the Celtics.
The Celtics will look to build on this win as they head into their next game. With Hauser emerging as a potential star, they may have found the spark they need to make a deep playoff run.