The Boston Celtics fell behind double-digits in the second quarter, but were able to chip away at the Charlotte Hornets lead which stood at 51-44 going into the half.
Just like they did in the first preseason game, Boston got off to a fast start with their lead in the first quarter peaking at 22-14.
But the Hornets were able to close out the quarter with a 9-0 run to lead 23-22 after the first.
As both teams continued to mix and match various player combinations, the Hornets’ groupings were more effective as their slim lead at the end of the first continued to increase as the game wore on.
Here’s a look at the Good and the Bad from the first half.
The Good
Boston Celtics
Guard play: Isaiah Thomas and Avery Bradley benefited greatly from Boston’s good ball movement in the first quarter, scoring eight and seven points, respectively in the quarter.
The Bad
Defense: The Celtics gave up way too many lay-ups in the first half. If the Boston guards weren’t getting beat off the dribble, it was the Celtics’ bigs not protecting the rim when opportunities presented themselves to block or contest shots.
Second half key
Perimeter players: Boston’s guards have to get this team going defensively. Even with the starters playing limited minutes, that just means Marcus Smart and Terry Rozier will get more of an opportunity to put the clamps on these Charlotte shooters, maybe force some turnovers that will lead to easy scores.