Celtics Defeat Wizards 100-94

Today the 5-9 Boston Celtics faced off against the 2-13 Washington Wizards, after having lost their last game at home against the Phoenix Suns. The Celtics were looking to start the game off with a positive note because as everyone knows, the Celtics usually win or lose the game in the first half. The Celtics have only been tied or ahead three times this season at the half. Their record in those games? 3-0. Avery Bradley got the nod to start tonight because of Rajon Rondos wrist.

The pace of the first quarter was quick, with Boston trying to make up for Rondos absence. Last game against Phoenix it was obvious how much of an impact Rajon Rondo has on the Celtics and their offensive vibe. The first quarter ended with the Wizards on an 8-2 run, with the bulk of the offense being shouldered by Andray Blatche with 6 points and 5 rebounds. Ray Allen finished the quarter with 7 points.


Ray Allen left the game in the second quarter after chasing Nick Young off a screen and tweaking his knee or ankle. He was taken to the locker room and did not return. Paul Pierce exploded in the first half with 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists. John Wall led the way for Washington with 14 points. The half ended with the Celtics biggest lead of the night 49-40.

Keys to the half:

- Ray Allen leaving the game with an injury

- Paul Pierces offensive explosion. 18 points on 4/7 shooting

- John Walls consistency, 14 points 4 rebounds

- Boston shooting 5/8 beyond the arc, Washington has yet to make a long-distance shot.

Later in the 3rd quarter, the Wizards went on an 8-0 run and cut the Celtics lead to 8 after it had gotten as high as 15. After a few comeback attempts from Washington, the third quarter ends with Boston up four on the Wizards. Paul Pierce only scored 2 points in the quarter, and at this point had 20 points, 7 rebounds, 9 assists. John Wall ended the quarter with similar stats, 20 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists.

Early on in the 4th, John Wall to Trevor Booker alley-oop tied the game. Pierce continued his fantastic play, scoring several baskets in a row but despite his efforts, the game still remained close. With 5 minutes left in the quarter, Washington had the lead 84-83. The 4th quarter came to a close with clutch free throws from Avery Bradley, and Paul Pierce and Boston came away with the win and their 2nd win of the year in Washington.