The Toronto Raptors' inability to maintain intensity proved costly in a decisive 112-96 loss to the Boston Celtics at home on Saturday, December 20, 2025. A game that remained competitive for stretches was ultimately decided by Boston's dominance in rebounding and interior scoring, areas where the absence of injured centre Jakob Poeltl was glaring.
Celtics Seize Control in Second Half
The contest was tightly contested until a pivotal third-quarter surge by the Celtics. Boston guard Payton Pritchard ignited the run, scoring 19 of his game-high 33 points in the third quarter alone. This explosion helped turn a five-point Raptors lead late in the third into a commanding 13-point Boston advantage early in the fourth. The final score did not fully reflect the Celtics' control, as they outrebounded Toronto 55-37 and outscored them in the paint 54-32.
Poeltl's Absence Creates Major Void
The Raptors were without starting centre Jakob Poeltl for the second consecutive game due to soreness in his lower back. Head coach Darko Rajakovic described the issue as a day-to-day, unpredictable management situation. "He has lower back pain that comes and goes," Rajakovic explained pre-game, emphasizing that surgery or a shutdown is not currently being considered.
The team's performance historically dips without a healthy Poeltl. His importance was underscored as Boston's big men, Neemias Queta (who shot a perfect 7-for-7) and Luka Garza (who recorded a double-double), exploited Toronto's interior. Rajakovic expressed confidence the issue would be short-term, stating, "In two to three weeks, we're not going to be talking about this at all, hopefully." Poeltl's next chance to return is Sunday in Brooklyn.
Roster Limitations Exposed
In Poeltl's stead, the Raptors deployed Sandro Mamukelashvili at centre, with Collin Murray-Boyles and even Scottie Barnes seeing time in the middle. While Mamukelashvili scored a season-high 24 points, the defensive and rebounding mismatch was significant. Rajakovic praised the effort of Mamukelashvili and rookie Murray-Boyles, noting the latter's surprising three-point shooting (13-of-29 so far) and defensive adaptability.
Other key notes from the game:
- The Celtics played without leading scorer Jaylen Brown, who was out due to illness.
- Raptors guard RJ Barrett (knee sprain) has begun full-court running and is progressing toward a return.
- Toronto built an early 13-7 lead, but a 25-7 Boston run shifted momentum. The Raptors closed the first half strong with a 23-8 run to take a two-point lead into halftime.
The loss highlights Toronto's vulnerability when lacking size and a true defensive anchor, a problem they hope will be solved upon Poeltl's return to full health.
