Celtics Grind Out 98-93 Road Win Over Raptors

The Boston Celtics relied on defense and timely shot-making to defeat the Toronto Raptors 98-93 on November 12, 2026, at Scotiabank Arena. In a game defined by contested possessions and low-scoring stretches, Boston’s stars made the plays that mattered in the final minutes.

Game overview

Neither team found an easy rhythm offensively. Toronto led 47-45 at halftime and held a slim advantage entering the fourth quarter, but Boston tightened its defense and limited the Raptors to 18 points over the final 12 minutes. The Celtics’ 98-93 victory was their latest example of winning without a high-powered offensive night.

Key moments

With the score tied at 88 and just over three minutes remaining, Boston produced an 8-0 run that decided the game. Jayson Tatum hit a pull-up jumper, Jaylen Brown converted a transition dunk, and Derrick White capped the surge with a corner three. Toronto missed four straight shots during that stretch and never recovered.

Standout performers

• Jayson Tatum scored 29 points and grabbed 9 rebounds for Boston.
• Jaylen Brown added 22 points and 6 rebounds.
• Derrick White contributed 16 points and 5 assists, including the decisive fourth-quarter three.
• Scottie Barnes led Toronto with 24 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists.
• RJ Barrett chipped in 18 points for the Raptors.

Tactical story

Boston’s switching defense disrupted Toronto’s half-court flow and forced the Raptors into several late-clock attempts. The Celtics held Toronto to 41% shooting from the field and 31% from beyond the arc. Toronto stayed competitive by attacking the offensive glass, but Boston’s half-court execution and free-throw shooting in the final two minutes proved to be the difference.

What it means

The result gives Boston another valuable road win in the Eastern Conference race and keeps the Celtics near the top of the early NBA standings. Toronto’s defense was impressive for long stretches, but the Raptors will look back at missed opportunities in the fourth quarter. The matchup offered a reminder that Boston can win on nights when its three-point shot is not falling consistently.