The Celtics received 19 points and a strong closing effort from Kemba Walker through mid-game struggles as his non-linear return from his knee injury continues with flashes of his former greatness next to brutal struggles at the rim and shooting slumps. His effort proved critical in countering Steph Curry's 35 points on a night where Boston melted down defensively in the opening minutes before clamping down late. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown shined, but ball movement and offensive rhythm looked like a problem in the first night without Marcus Smart due to his injury. Did a win over the Warriors impress you?

John Zannis and Bobby Manning debate. The Celtics beat the Warriors 111-107 to begin their seven game west coast trip without Marcus Smart, with Payton Pritchard possibly back tomorrow.