The Boston Celtics showed resilience and held off a determined Toronto Raptors team to secure a hard-fought 108-105 victory on Friday in Toronto. The Celtics remained undefeated in the NBA's in-season tournament, showcasing their determination and ability to close out games.

In the early stages of the game, the Raptors came out with intensity, but the Celtics weathered the storm and built a comfortable 16-point lead at the beginning of the second half. However, the Raptors launched a remarkable comeback, erasing the deficit and even managing to take the lead, making the Celtics fight until the end for the win.

The game turned into a physical battle with both teams exchanging baskets during crunch time. It was a closely contested affair, but it was Derrick White's clutch 3-pointer that ultimately made the difference and secured the victory for the Celtics. With this win, the Celtics maintained their impressive season record at 10-2, including a perfect 2-0 in group play games of the in-season tournament.

Leading the way for the Celtics was Jaylen Brown, who finished the game with 23 points, showcasing his scoring prowess. Jayson Tatum contributed 17 points and seven rebounds, although he struggled from beyond the arc, going just 1-for-11 from 3-point range. Despite Tatum's shooting woes, his teammates stepped up, with a balanced scoring effort that saw seven players reach double figures, including the entire starting lineup.

Noteworthy performances came from Al Horford off the bench, who scored 11 points and connected on 3-of-4 three-point attempts. Sam Hauser also provided a lift for the Celtics, contributing 11 points, including three successful shots from downtown. Hauser's energetic play, including a rare dunk, helped the Celtics weather the Raptors' strong start.

Looking ahead, the Celtics will face the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday at 8 p.m. in Memphis. Unfortunately, Marcus Smart will be sidelined due to a foot injury, posing a challenge for the team. However, the Celtics have shown their ability to adapt and overcome adversity throughout the season.

With a perfect 2-0 record in group play, the Celtics are well on their way to advancing in the in-season tournament. With upcoming games against the Orlando Magic and the Chicago Bulls, the Celtics have a good chance of securing a spot in the eight-team bracket. If they continue their strong performance, they could be serious contenders in the knockout stages.

In conclusion, the Celtics' victory over the Raptors highlighted their resilience and ability to close out games under pressure. Despite shooting struggles from Tatum, the team's balanced scoring and solid defensive efforts secured the win. With the tournament progressing, the Celtics remain a formidable force, poised for success as they chase tournament glory.