5 Biggest Takeaways as Celtics Take Down Hornets Again

The Boston Celtics took care of enterprise in opposition to 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 powerful efficiency, the Celtics’ depth and elegance of play finally secured them the win. Listed here are the 5 takeaways from the competition:

1. The Celtics’ function gamers stepped up

Payton Pritchard, Luke Kornet, and Jrue Vacation had 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 recreation, going an ideal 6-for-6 from the sector and nailing all seven free throws. Vacation, in the meantime, was reliable and environment friendly, notably 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 sturdy earlier, fell flat within the third, going 2-for-15 from past the arc. Regardless of the stoop, the Celtics caught with their perimeter recreation slightly than attacking the paint, one thing they could look to handle in future video games.

3. Grant Williams’ absence isn’t being felt

Former Celtic Grant Williams had a lackluster displaying on Saturday, giving followers purpose to really feel assured in Boston’s present rotation. Williams scored simply 5 factors and dedicated 5 fouls, battling 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 considered one of their stars.

5. Boston’s depth is unmatched

Though they had been up in opposition to a rebuilding Hornets squad, Saturday’s win strengthened the concept 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 closing recreation of their three-game highway journey in opposition to the Atlanta Hawks, the Celtics proceed to show that they’re greater than able to contend on the highest degree, with or with out their marquee gamers.

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