The Boston Celtics bounced back from a crushing loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers with a hard-fought 110-103 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Sunday. Just two days after blowing a huge lead to Cleveland, Boston nearly suffered a similar fate against Denver but held on in the final minutes to secure the win.

Jaylen Brown led the way with 22 points, eight assists, and five rebounds, but it was the Celtics’ defense that stood out. The reigning champions made life difficult for three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, limiting him to 20 points, 14 rebounds, and nine assists—just one short of his 29th triple-double of the season. Boston sent frequent double and triple teams at Jokic, making it tough for him to dominate in the paint.

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15)

© Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

However, despite Boston’s clear focus on slowing down Jokic, head coach Joe Mazzulla made a surprising claim after the game.

“We didn’t talk anything about Jokic in the game plan,” Mazzulla said. “It’s not about him… you don’t really talk about him in a game plan. You talk about all the other stuff that you can control.”

His comment raised eyebrows, especially given how much defensive attention Boston gave Jokic. But whether or not he was the focus, the Celtics’ defense once again proved why it ranks among the best in the NBA. Per NBA.com, Boston currently leads ranks third in offensive rating (118.7) and fifth in defensive rating (110.0), showcasing its dominance on both ends of the floor.

Now 43-18 on the season, Boston will look to build on this crucial win when they take on the Portland Trail Blazers at home on Wednesday..