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After yesterday’s thrilling triple-overtime victory, the Celtics now have the longest active winning streak in the NBA. The question is, does Boston have enough energy to keep the streak alive past tonight?

While one team comes into tonight surging, the Bobcats have lost 34 of their last 38 games.

In a loss to Philadelphia on Saturday, the team shot its second-lowest field goal percentage of the season, a measly 30.7 percent.

The first key is mental toughness. The Celtics have to ignore the fatigue from last night’s game or use it as motivation. Either way, the team cannot be flat.

This is another opportunity to make a bold statement to the rest of the league. Furthermore, a win tonight, against a much less formidable opponent than Denver, is important for gaining ground in the East. Boston is 8 games out of first and has the same amount of wins (27), with just one more loss than the team above them, Atlanta.

The second key is getting off to a good start. This will set the tone and let Charlotte know that last night’s game is not going to have an impact on this one. Taking it to a spiraling Bobcats team early is likely to affect the confidence and psyche of a young team that is struggling.

If the Celtics clamp down defensively right from the opening tip, it will not only help generate offense, but will also let Charlotte know that its in trouble.

The third key is depth. Now, more than ever, Boston’s depth has been on display. After playing in a triple-overtime contest, this is a prime example of where the second-unit needs to be able to carry a larger burden.