Celtics News Now: Avery Bradley Scores 31 to Help Exterminate Hornets
Boston Celtics guard Avery Bradley had the type of all-around game he has been aiming for in the team’s 104-98 victory over the Charlotte Hornets Saturday night.
The Charlotte Hornets had no answer for Avery Bradley Saturday night. The shooting guard had a career night with 31 points and 11 rebounds to help the Boston Celtics get back in the win column.
Boston as a team started the game on fire from behind the three-point stripe, but it was Bradley’s eight 3-pointers that really stood out. He also had 10 points during the team’s 22-7 run to open the fourth quarter to give the Celtics a 93-79 lead with 4:22 to play in the game.
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The 11 rebounds by Bradley were also very impressive and much needed. Following a game in which the Celtics were bullied on the boards, Bradley entered the game knowing the team had to get tough on the glass and he certainly helped the team deliver.
With the performance, Avery Bradley is now averaging 21.3 points and almost nine rebounds per game.
"“That’s my mindset this year — I’m trying to rebound, pass the ball and make plays for others,” Bradley said following the game. “I work on my game every single summer and know I’m trying to put it in the game.”"
Celtics head coach Brad Stevens left Bradley in the game with the second unit to start that fourth quarter. His decision paid off and left Hornets coach Steve Clifford praising the effort and performance of Bradley.
"“Especially in the stretch where they got a little bit of cushion (in the fourth quarter) which ended up being the difference in the game,” Clifford said. “They’re a good team and they played well. You can see why people are saying they’ll be top two or three in the East.”"
Rebounding on the rebound
The Celtics did a better job on the boards Saturday night. Jae Crowder added 9 rebounds to go with Bradley’s eleven. Overall, coach Stevens was happy with the team’s effort to improve on the glass.
"“I thought we were locked in,” coach Brad Stevens said following the game via WEEI. “I thought our guys were really locked in…They just played with poise, chipped at it.”"
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