Boston will need to be vigilant that old habits vs. banged-up and lesser ball clubs don't make a winnable game into a struggle -- or worse, a loss.

Boston’s starting five is finding cohesion, and its defense stifled Golden State. The Celtics’ ability to stay consistent will be tested against the Clippers, who sit fifth in the Western Conference standings and sport a 15-7 record at the Intuit Dome.

With Kawhi Leonard and Ivica Zubac unavailable, the Clippers can’t keep up with Zach LaVine (35 points) and Chicago after halftime and lose for the first time in five games, 112-99.