The NBA’s most storied rivalry returns to the spotlight tonight, 22 February 2026, as the Boston Celtics (36-19) visit the Los Angeles Lakers (34-21) at Crypto.com Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. ET (3:30 p.m. PT) in a matchup that carries significant weight for both playoff positioning and historical bragging rights.
Boston enters the contest as a slim 1.5-point favourite, looking to sweep the regular-season series after a dominant 126-105 victory over Los Angeles back on 5 December. The Celtics have been in fine form, winning eight of their last 10 games, while the Lakers are riding the momentum of a 125-122 victory over the Clippers this past Friday.
Historical Context and All-Time Standings
The rivalry, which spans 80 seasons, remains the gold standard of professional basketball. Heading into tonight’s clash, the all-time regular-season record stands as follows:
- Total Regular Season Wins: Boston 168, Los Angeles 135
- Total Playoff Wins: Boston 43, Los Angeles 31
- Combined Championships: 34 (nearly 45% of all NBA titles)
While the Celtics hold the historical edge in head-to-head victories, the Lakers have been formidable at home this season. Analysts note that the “Over” has hit in 18 of 26 Lakers home games at Crypto.com Arena, highlighting a high-octane offence that will test Boston’s resilient road defence.
Key Matchups and Player Notes
The spotlight tonight shines on Jaylen Brown, who led the Celtics with 30 points in their previous meeting this season. On the Lakers’ side, the integration of Luka Doncic alongside LeBron James has transformed the team’s offensive ceiling. Doncic is coming off a massive 38-point, 11-assist performance and remains the focal point of the Lakers’ attack.
Notably, the Celtics are navigating a roster that looks different from previous years following the exits of veterans Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis. Jaylen Brown recently made headlines with a viral quote regarding his former teammates, adding a layer of emotional intensity to Boston’s current West Coast road trip.
Game Day Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Venue | Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA |
| Date / Time | 22 February 2026 | 6:30 p.m. ET |
| Betting Line | Celtics -1.5; O/U 228.5 |
| Broadcast | NBC, Peacock, Sportsnet (Canada) |
With both teams entering on two-game winning streaks, tonight’s game serves as a critical barometer for the second half of the 2025-26 season. For the Lakers, a win would signal their readiness to challenge the league’s elite; for the Celtics, it is an opportunity to assert dominance over their “hated” rivals on the road.