BOSTON — As the Boston Celtics fight for positioning in the eastern conference before the NBA Playoffs begin, they defeat the Washington Wizards 144-104 on their home court Sunday. 

With just one point away from reaching their season high in total points—the Celtics shared the ball well with 39 total assists. For Washington, with their star Bradley Beal out (wrist) they stood no chance. 

Winning 13 of their last 16 games, the Celtics finish their last regular season home game with a bang. Jaylen Brown finished with 32 points and seven rebounds. Jayson Tatum had a quiet night with only 22 points. And with Robert Williams out with a meniscus tear, the Celtics bench stepped up. 

Grant Williams dropped 16 points while Derrick White led the bench scoring with 17 points. Payton Pritchard hit four threes, bringing his total to 14 points for the night. 

Celtics were hot from deep, they shot 52% from behind the arc. They started on fire since the start of the game. Wizards found themselves trailing by double digits in the first quarter. 

Part of Boston’s success in the late season is there ability to hold on to leads—and they did just that against Washington. By the end of the first half the score was 70-59 Celtics way. The biggest lead reaching 43 points. 

R. William’s absence didn’t stop the Celtics from playing great defense. Celtics only allowed 4 fast break points—showing great transition defense. They also forced 12 turnovers.

Kristaps Porzingis and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope both led the Wizards in scoring with 17 points a piece. Ish Smith came off the bench with 16 points. 

The Celtics are now at the #2 spot in the eastern conference right behind the Miami Heat. They’ll have a tough road matchup against the Chicago Bulls Wednesday.