Celts drop one at home to Cavs, 121-122

Kelly Olynyk looked good again for the Celts, but was no match for LeBron and the Cavs (Photo courtesy ESPN)

The Celtics lost a close one tonight in Boston, 121-122.

LeBron James led the Cavs to an overall fast paced first half (with 22 points) in which both teams looked sloppy. Brad Stevens commented on his team's poor transition D at halftime, but the Cavaliers were guilty of much of the same. The Celts went into the half tied with Cleveland at 59.

Boston really got it going to start the second half, outscoring Cleveland 42-25 in the third. Kelly Olynyk helped lead the way in the third and continue to raise his stock with 21 points on 8-13 shooting and 6 rebounds.

Rajon Rondo was an artist on the passing front and helped sustain the tempo for the Celts dealing 16 dimes to go with 8 rebounds and just 6 points.

The Celtics continued a trend of coming out hot before falling into a lull as they suffered an absolute meltdown in the fourth quarter. In a wild final few minutes, Rondo had the last shot with about 8 seconds down one, but hung onto the ball too long and missed the final shot (after the buzzer sounded). Ultimately, the blown fourth quarter was too much to overcome for the Celtics, who have now lost two in a row.

LeBron James led all scorers with a dominant 41 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds. Kyrie Irving functioned in the main supporting role with 27 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds, and 3 steals.

The Celtics (3-5) take a three day rest before taking on the Phoenix Suns (5-3 and currently playing NOH) at home on November 17 at 7:30 eastern.