The Boston Celtics became the first team in the NBA to clinch a playoff spot following their 127-112 win over the Phoenix Suns on Thursday.

The Celtics, who are tied for the fourth-best net rating in NBA history at 11.3, are now 16 games ahead of the sixth seed.

The Celtics are on pace for the franchise's first 60-win season since 2008-09 and have won 15 out of their last 17 games. 

The Celtics finished the night with a 9.5 game lead in the Eastern Conference.