Hornets 97, Celtics 78
Jarrett Jack recorded 21 points and nine assists in his season debut to lead the New Orleans Hornets to a 97-78 victory over the visiting Boston Celtics on Wednesday.
Carl Landry added 20 points and 11 rebounds and Marco Bellinelli scored 13 for the Hornets, who have won their first two contests to open the season after sending away franchise player Chris Paul earlier in the month. The main piece coming back in that trade - Eric Gordon - sat out Wednesday with a bruised knee.
Chris Kaman, who was also part of the deal, collected 12 points, nine rebounds and three blocks for New Orleans.
The Celtics, who were playing their third game in four days, fell to 0-3 on the season. Captain Paul Pierce has yet to play due to a bruised heel.
The Hornets took advantage of a tired Boston squad, locking down on the defensive end and holding the Celtics to 37 percent shooting. Boston did not score more than 24 points in any quarter and was outscored 25-15 in the fourth, thwarting any chance of a comeback.
Jack, who served a one-game suspension in the opener, stepped up for the injured Gordon and committed only one turnover while directing the offense. Jack’s penetration forced Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo into early foul trouble as well.
Ray Allen score 15 points to lead Boston.