In an exciting game, the Charlotte Hornets had a disappointing ending that led to their first defeat against the Boston Celtics. In a back-and-forth game where both teams would trade runs, the Celtics were able to execute better down the stretch and in overtime. Jason Tatum was unstoppable at times, scoring 41 points, and his running mate on the wing, Jaylen Brown, would chip in with 30 points. LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges both scored 25 points for the Hornets. The Hornets will have to get their legs under them as they travel to Orlando Wednesday and then to Miami on Friday.
Observations:
Late game execution:
Hornets had the lead most of the 4th quarter, but the offense would get stagnant. This was the first game where the Hornets missed Terry Rozier. Rozier’s scoring ability would’ve taken some of the pressure off Lamelo and Miles, and would have been another threat to the Celtics’ defense. The Hornets also missed PJ Washington down the stretch. Boston, at times in the 4th employed the Hack-A-Mason Plumlee strategy to throw the Hornets off their rhythm. Charlotte was up by as many as 12 in the 4th quarter, but couldn’t hold off the Celtics.
Free Throws:
In a game that goes into overtime, it can be the little things that cost you. Boston shot 21/25 from the foul line while the Hornets shot 18/28.
Gordon Hayward:
Gordon Hayward is the highest paid player on the team and it’s time for him to play like it. Hayward, at times, doesn’t look assertive and you would like to see a veteran and former all-star assert himself late in games – which he didn’t do last night. Gordon only scored eight points against Brooklyn Sunday and 15 points against the Celtics. That simply isn’t going to cut it when you’re making the the type of money Hayward is making. With Terry Rozier out, this was a prime opportunity for Gordon to show some veteran leadership and help this young team close out a game against a playoff team.