Celtics Cruise Past 76ers 105-87 in Season Opener
Wednesday, October 17, 2018
“We’re a looong way from being really good. But if we play hard, we have a chance to get there," said Celtics head coach Brad Stevens in his postgame press conference.
The victory was Boston’s 45th home opening win all-time, an NBA record.
Celtics Win Season Opener
The Celtics led by four, 49-45, in the opening minute of the third quarter before going on a 7-0 run to take a 56-45 lead on a three by Aron Baynes with 9:50 to play in the quarter.
Philadelphia would get back within four, 61-57, following a Robert Covington three with 5:50 to go in the quarter, but Boston would extend their lead on a Tatum layup and free throw.
Later in the quarter, Boston would lead 72-66, before going on a 10-1 run to take an 82-67 lead following a Jaylen Brown jump shot with 11 minutes left in the game.
The 76ers would not get closer than nine points the rest of the way.
The Celtics got the win despite shooting just 43 percent from the field and 30 percent from three.
Hayward Returns
Gordon Hayward returned to the Celtics lineup for the first time since the opening five minutes of last season when he suffered a gruesome ankle injury that kept him out the entire year.
"My adrenaline was pumping those first three or four minutes. I think everybody's adrenaline was pumping. It was sloppy at first. It was great just to be out there. It was a big step for me,” said Hayward after the game.
Hayward, who was on a minutes restriction, played just under 25 minutes and scored ten points on 4 of 12 shooting from the field.
He also grabbed five rebounds and had four steals.
Next Up
The Celtics return to action on Friday, October 19 when they visit the Toronto Raptors.
Game time is set for 8 p.m.
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