Celtics Deliver Historic Offensive Explosion as Tatum's Return Looms

Boston shoots record-setting 80.8% effective field goal percentage in blowout win over Nets

Feb. 28, 2026 at 4:33am

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The Boston Celtics put on an offensive masterclass, shooting a scorching 66.7% from the field and 64.7% from 3-point range in a 148-111 rout of the Brooklyn Nets. The team's 80.8% effective field goal percentage was the highest in NBA history, as Jaylen Brown led the way with 28 points, 9 assists and 7 rebounds. The Celtics now await the potential return of star forward Jayson Tatum, who has been sidelined for 41 weeks with an Achilles injury.

Why it matters

The Celtics' historic offensive performance showcases the team's firepower and depth as they continue their strong play since the All-Star break. Tatum's potential return would further bolster an already formidable squad as they jockey for playoff position in the Eastern Conference.

The details

Boston shot a blistering 66.7% from the field, the second-best mark in franchise history, and an equally impressive 64.7% from 3-point range. This translated to an 80.8% effective field goal percentage, the highest in NBA history. All 13 Celtics players scored, with Jaylen Brown and trade deadline acquisition Nikola Vucevic leading the way with 28 points each.

  • The Celtics set their franchise record for field goal percentage on November 21, 1984.
  • Boston shot their historic 80.8% effective field goal percentage on February 27, 2026.

The players

Jaylen Brown

An All-Star forward for the Boston Celtics who led the team with 28 points, 9 assists and 7 rebounds in the historic win.

Nikola Vucevic

A veteran center acquired by the Celtics at the trade deadline, he added 28 points and 11 rebounds for his third double-double since joining the team.

Joe Mazzulla

The head coach of the Boston Celtics, who praised his team's offensive execution and decision-making in the blowout victory.

Jayson Tatum

The Celtics' star forward who has been sidelined for 41 weeks with an Achilles injury, and is nearing a potential return to action.

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What they’re saying

“I thought we just did a good job reading the game. I thought we made the right reads throughout most of the entire game. I thought tonight Vooch really looked comfortable in his offensive reads and his offensive screening. He unlocked a lot of stuff for us.”

— Joe Mazzulla, Head Coach, Boston Celtics

“It doesn't mean that I'm coming back or I'm not, it's just following the plan. So it's just another step. I don't know percentage. I just know I feel a little bit better everyday. I just try to focus on that.”

— Jayson Tatum

“I'm just hyper aware of what's going on. I think it would just stem from that. Obviously, I know what I bring to the table and bring to the team. But I'm also aware that these guys have been playing extremely well.”

— Jayson Tatum

What’s next

The Celtics will host the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday night in a primetime matchup that could mark the return of Jayson Tatum to the lineup.

The takeaway

The Celtics' historic offensive explosion showcases the team's depth and firepower, even without their superstar Jayson Tatum. As Tatum nears his return, the Celtics are poised to be an even more formidable force in the Eastern Conference playoff race.