Celtics Defeat The Sixers 98-78

On Monday night, the Boston Celtics opened up their preseason by beating the Philadelphia 76ers.  The Celtics had a dismal start to the game only shooting 5-23 in the first quarter.  As the game went on the Celtics slowly turned their act around.  

Evan Turner led the Celtics with 15 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists.  Turner looked great in his debut for the green.  He continually attacked the rim and it payed dividends as he got his shots to drop after a slow first quarter.  Turner played mostly small forward but brought the ball up a few times also.  He seemed to be more comfortable playing at his true position last night.  Evan Turner is going to be a pivotal piece for this Celtics team.

Other notable performers were Brandon Bass, Marcus Thornton, and Kelly Olynyk.  Bass scored 15 points and grabbed 9 boards, while both Thornton and Olynyk both scored 14 points.

Marcus Smart did not play his best game last night.  He only scored 2 points, but on the bright side dished out 6 assists.  Smart may not have shown off his offensive game, but he certainly demonstrated his ability to run the Celtics offense.  With Rajon Rondo hurt, Smart proved he is a worthy replacement, but he just needs a little more work on his offensive game. 

On the other hand, Hollis Thompson played a good game for the 76ers.  He exploded for 15 points in the first half, but failed to score in the second half.

Tony Wroten led the Sixers with 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists.  He played a great game all night picking the Celtics defense apart. 

The first half ended with the Sixers leading 48-44.  But as the second half opened the Celtics went on a 9-0 run and continued to blow the game open.  A 98-78 victory was a pleasing way to start the preseason for the Boston Celtics.