The Celtics started slow but recovered quickly, thanks to Anfernee Simons getting hot right away and Jaylen Brown recovering from a bad first quarter, to blow out the Bucks.

Hawks vs Celtics best bet: CJ McCollum Over 17.5 points (-105) CJ McCollum was the main piece that came to the Atlanta Hawks in the Trae Young trade, and so far, he’s been as advertised. The veteran has cashed the Over in points in four of seven contests since the blockbuster deal.

The Boston Celtics beat the Milwaukee Bucks at TD Garden in the inaugural Pioneers Classic game that celebrated the league's first Black players.

The Bucks lost 107-79 to the Celtics, dropping their fifth straight and scoring their fewest points of the season.

Jaylen Brown was downgraded on the Celtics injury report ahead of their 7:30 p.m. Friday game against the Kings. Brown is listed as doubtful with left hamstring tightness and a right knee contusion. Neemias Queta is also listed with an illness, but he’s probable. Jayson Tatum remains out with his Achilles rehab.

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla was asked about the team's trade deadline plans and made clear where the focus remains.

The Celtics overwhelmed the Bucks to close out their four-game home stand, which is also their final home game before Thursday's trade deadline.

Pritchard led all scorers with 23 points, helping guide Boston to a 102-94 win over the Blazers. The performance makes him Monday’s “Name to Know” Player of the Game. The Name to Know Player of the Game is sponsored by John’s Sewer and Drain Cleaning, the Name to Know when your drains don’t flow.