5 Biggest Takeaways as Celtics Take Down Hornets Again

The Boston Celtics took care of enterprise towards the Charlotte Hornets for the second straight night time, claiming a 113-103 victory on Saturday. Though Hornets All-Star level guard LaMelo Ball delivered a robust efficiency, the Celtics’ depth and elegance of play in the end secured them the win. Listed below are the 5 takeaways from the competition:

1. The Celtics’ function gamers stepped up

Payton Pritchard, Luke Kornet, and Jrue Vacation have been instrumental within the win. Pritchard discovered his rhythm from past the arc, sinking 4 of his six three-pointers within the second quarter and ending with 22 factors on 8-for-15 capturing off the bench. Kornet had an impeccable sport, going an ideal 6-for-6 from the sphere and nailing all seven free throws. Vacation, in the meantime, was reliable and environment friendly, significantly within the fourth quarter, with 13 factors, six assists, and 5 rebounds.

2. Third-quarter struggles

The Celtics hit a tough patch popping out of halftime, permitting the Hornets to go on a 17-2 run, which trimmed Boston’s 18-point halftime result in simply three factors. Boston’s three-point capturing, which had been robust earlier, fell flat within the third, going 2-for-15 from past the arc. Regardless of the hunch, the Celtics caught with their perimeter sport reasonably than attacking the paint, one thing they could look to deal with in future video games.

3. Grant Williams’ absence isn’t being felt

Former Celtic Grant Williams had a lackluster exhibiting on Saturday, giving followers motive to really feel assured in Boston’s present rotation. Williams scored simply 5 factors and dedicated 5 fouls, scuffling with consistency and decision-making, together with a questionable foul on former teammate Jayson Tatum. This efficiency highlighted that Boston has moved on easily with out him.

4. The Celtics thrive with out Jaylen Brown

All-Star wing Jaylen Brown, the Finals MVP, sat out with a flexor pressure, however the Celtics nonetheless didn’t miss a beat. They surged to a 19-point lead within the second quarter, proving that they continue to be a formidable group even with out one in all their stars.

5. Boston’s depth is unmatched

Though they have been up towards a rebuilding Hornets squad, Saturday’s win strengthened the concept that Boston’s depth is an actual asset. The Celtics confirmed they will adapt, depend on numerous contributors, and stay harmful from a number of spots on the ground.

As they head into Monday’s ultimate sport of their three-game street journey towards the Atlanta Hawks, the Celtics proceed to reveal that they’re greater than able to contend on the highest stage, with or with out their marquee gamers.

Extra Celtics: Former Celtics Champ Calls Out Grant Williams Flagrant Foul