The Charlotte Hornets defeated the visiting Boston Celtics, 117-112, at Spectrum Center on Monday.
There were nine ties and 18 lead changes in this competitive game, as it wasn't decided until the final minutes. Charlotte's defense was huge, as Boston missed seven of their final eight shots. The Hornets won in comeback fashion, outscoring the Celtics, 33-25, in the fourth quarter. Three-point shooting was the difference in the game, with Charlotte hitting 15-of-41 while Boston connected on just 9-of-32. Boston actually dominated many of the statistics, winning the assists, turnovers, steals. blocks. fastbreak points and points in the paint differentials.
The Celtics (9-8) got a double-double out of Kyrie Irving, as he collected 27 points, five rebounds, 11 assists and two steals. Jayson Tatum amassed 18 points, six rebounds and two assists. Al Horford accrued 10 points, three rebounds, four assists and three blocks. Marcus Smart and Daniel Theis both reached double figures in scoring off of the bench.
The Hornets (8-8) got another gem out of Kemba Walker, as he tallied 43 points, four rebounds and five assists. Jeremy Lamb totaled 18 points and six boards. Nicolas Batum finished with nine points and eight rebounds. Wily Hernangomez was a nice spark off the bench, as he provided 14 points, three rebounds and three assists.
Both teams return to action on Wednesday, with Charlotte playing host to the Indiana Pacers and Boston welcoming the New York Knicks to Beantown.
