The Boston Celtics lost again, this time against the Atlanta Hawks as Jimmy Butler inspired the Chicago Bulls in the NBA.

After surrendering the top seed to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference on Wednesday, the Celtics went down 123-116 to the Atlanta Hawks.

Butler posted a triple-double as the Bulls accounted for the Philadelphia 76ers 102-90.

Meanwhile, Paul George led the way for the Indiana Pacers against the Milwaukee Bucks.

ARE THE WHEELS FALLING OFF IN BOSTON?

The Celtics were the team to beat in the east until they lost to the Cavs, having won five of seven.

Now, the Celtics are in the midst of a two-game losing streak as they sit one and a half games adrift of the reigning NBA champions.

Isaiah Thomas' 35 points were not enough for the Celtics, who allowed 71 points in the first half in Atlanta.

The Hawks snapped a two-game skid thanks to 26 points from Paul Millsap.

BUTLER BOOSTS BULLS' PLAYOFF HOPES

The All-Star put up 19 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists for the Bulls in Philadelphia.

After Butler recorded his fourth career triple-double, the Bulls improved to 39-40 in the race for the seventh seed in the east.

GEORGE LIFTS PACERS, WIZARDS SINK KNICKS

Paul George had 23 points and 10 rebounds as the Pacers beat the Bucks 104-89, while the Washington Wizards prevailed 106-103 against the New York Knicks.

The Orlando Magic were 115-107 winners against the Brooklyn Nets and the Portland Trail Blazers were too good for the Minnesota Timberwolves 105-98.

CAVS LOOK TO MOVE CLEAR

The Cavaliers host the Hawks on Friday in a bid to improve their lead atop the east. The San Antonio Spurs are at the Dallas Mavericks.