The Boston Celtics showcased their championship pedigree with a commanding 109-86 victory over the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center. Despite being without star guard Jaylen Brown, the Celtics demonstrated their depth and resilience,

The Boston Celtics head to the Toyota Center to face the Houston Rockets in a non-conference matchup. The Celtics are 25-9, which lands them in second place in the Eastern Conference. The Rockets are 22-11, which lands them in third place in the Western Conference.

On paper, the Boston Celtics had already made 17 3s, just one shy of their season average with nearly three-quarters of a quarter to go. By comparison, the Houston Rockets had converted only nine. But Friday night’s dismal showing — a lopsided 109-86 loss to the reigning champs — was yet another painful reminder of the offensive shortcomings augmented by a lack of bodies,