In a game where Rajon Rondo (23 points, 7 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 steals) outplayed MVP candidate Chris Paul (19 points, 7 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 steals) it was surprising that the Hornets still found a way to win, 113-107 in New Orleans.
Paul got into foul trouble (5 fouls) and had to sit for much of the fourth quarter. Still, when he came back in he hit the two biggest shots of the game, a desperation jumper and a 3-pointer to keep New Orleans (47-21) in front. David West was unstoppable all game, scoring a game-high 37 points on a variety of jumpers and drives.
Boston (55-14) lost because it fell apart in the fourth quarter, getting outscored 37-17. Paul Pierce had a team-high 28 points and six rebounds while Kevin Garnett posted a double-double with 19 points, 12 rebounds and four assists. Ray Allen was the other high-scorer with 17 points and six boards.
The Celts jumped out to a 36-23 lead after one, quieting the biggest crowd of the season at a Hornets game. Boston led by 10 (65-55) at the half.
The two players that sparked the Hornets when Paul was out where Bonzi Wells (12 points, 8 steals) and Jannero Pargo (15 points, 6 assists). Peja Stojakovic had 13 points but he shot just 3 of 13 from the floor.
Turnovers were the story of the game as Boston committed 21 turnovers, which led to 32 Hornets points. New Orleans' nine turnovers only led to nine points for Boston. This negated all the great numbers the Celtics had (55.4% shooting, 44-29 rebound advantage). The Hornets made eight more free throws (25-17) and nine more steals (13-4).
It was the last stop on the Celtics five-game road trip and they finished an impressive 4-1. The Hornets come to Boston next Friday for the rematch. Make no mistake, New Orleans was impressive. They won despite their best player having (for him) an off-night. Next time out, I'm sure the Celts will pay more attention to West though who is deadly from anywhere inside the 3-point line.
Philadelphia comes to the Garden tomorrow night.
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