Jaylen Brown scored 35 factors and grabbed 9 rebounds because the Boston Celtics held off the Charlotte Hornets 113-102 on Tuesday at TD Backyard. Jayson Tatum added 23 factors, persevering with his streak of six straight 20-point video games, as each stars performed the whole fourth quarter.
Brown credited the group’s power shift within the second half for the win. “I feel we simply performed with somewhat bit extra power. Give credit score to Charlotte although. They got here out enjoying with a distinct depth stage than we did to start out the sport, and as we picked it as much as match their power, I feel that helped us draw back,” he mentioned.
The Hornets led by 11 within the first half, however Boston outscored them 35-26 within the third quarter and restricted them to fifteen factors within the fourth. LaMelo Ball led Charlotte with 36 factors, whereas Brandon Miller added 20, and Miles Bridges recorded 13 factors and 12 rebounds. Rookie Kon Knueppel struggled, ending with 13 factors on 5-of-16 capturing.
Brown spoke on managing effort and focus all through the sport. “Simply not getting sped up, not letting the feelings of the sport carry you. Proceed to struggle your thoughts and be centered on each single possession,” he mentioned. “Typically it’s not going to be fairly, however you simply bought to get it accomplished.”
He additionally praised Jordan Walsh, noting his impression in transition. “Jordan has the power to alter video games. Performs like which might be essential,” Brown mentioned. He highlighted the progress of youthful gamers, including that mentoring them has been a key a part of his management.
Looking forward to Thursday’s matchup at Madison Sq. Backyard, Brown acknowledged the importance of Tatum’s return to New York. “I haven’t thought of that, however JT’s in a great place. He’s enjoying good basketball, rebounding the ball, dealing with bodily drives, seems to be extra explosive than within the first couple video games. We bought his again,” he mentioned.
Brown mirrored on the Celtics’ season chemistry, emphasizing their early cohesion. “The best way this group merged collectively as shortly because it did—it didn’t take lengthy. I’m very happy with this group that we’ve been capable of come collectively and discover chemistry,” he mentioned.
Boston, now 53-25, is closing in on the No. 2 seed within the Japanese Convention. Charlotte, 43-36, fights to keep away from the play-in match with two video games remaining. The Celtics go to the Knicks on Thursday, whereas the Hornets host the Pistons on Friday.
