Here’s a look at the Stars, Studs and Duds after the first half of tonight’s game between the Boston Celtics and the Utah Jazz with the Celtics ahead, 58-44.
STARS
Isaiah Thomas
He tallied a career-high 15 assists the last time these two played, but was back to his usual high-scoring ways with 15 first-half points and just two assists.
Gordon Hayward
The first-time All-Star led the way for the Jazz, finishing the half with 12 points.
Boston Celtics
STUDS
Kelly Olynyk
The Celtics got off to an impressive start offensively and Olynyk was among to set the run in motion. He had nine points in less than four minutes of action.
Gerald Green
There were lots of shot-makers for the Celtics, but Green was among those who stood out. He had 14 points on 6-for-7 shooting in just under 15 minutes of court time
Derrick Favors
The Jazz big man had six points and three rebounds.
DUDS
Utah defense
The league’s top defensive team was bad on several fronts in the first half. They couldn’t stop Boston’s bevy of shooters, they couldn’t keep the Celtics from holding their own on the glass and they struggled to make shots.