Brown’s message didn’t come across as a challenge. It sounded more like encouragement, the words of a caring teammate looking to empower one of his brothers.

While Jayson Tatum might not necessarily get his credit from detractors, NBA head coaches have spoken at length about what he brings to the Celtics.

Despite missing nearly half of their core rotation, the Celtics dispatched the Raptors on the road for their sixth straight win.

The Boston Celtics were without several key players but still defeated the Toronto Raptors for their sixth straight win.

Up until recently, Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla didn't have the depth necessary to deal with the absence of a guard or forward. Whenever Boston has been short-handed in the backcourt or on the wing, Mazzulla has been forced to lean on a double-big rotation.

Still, behind some clutch shooting from Derrick White and a crafty play call from Joe Mazzulla that enabled Neemias Queta to score a late-game layup, the Celtics prevailed, 111-101, as they continue their February surge.

Jaylen Brown scored 24 points, Derrick White had 22, and the Boston Celtics beat the Raptors 111-101 on Tuesday night.