The Celtics are looking for a credible third center after Al Horford and Luke Cornette, who have not traveled due to ankle sprains. Griffin is a strong choice, offering immediate paint stability with strong decision-making.
“We were fine with the wind, but it felt like we had a lot of speed,” he said. “I made a mistake easily [shots], bad turnover here and there. I haven’t played 5v5 much, just getting into the rhythm. I’m starting a little late and have some work to do, but that’s okay. “
Celtics coach Joe Mazzurra gave some of the second unit players and camp invitees long hours, and the club outscored the Hornets 71-49 in the second and third periods, finishing 1. trailed 35-22 after the quarter. He wanted to take a closer look at Griffin, who joined the team on Monday and attended two practices. he was impressed.
“I think he’s good for our offense just because of his ability to screen and move the ball,” Mazura said. “I thought he helped us on the grass. We could put him in a good position defensively and that would help our lineup.”
With Al Horford, Marcus Smart, Jason Tatum and Malcolm Brogdon off the night, journeyman Noah Vonley had a real chance to make an impression in the first frontcourt. After a rough first half in which he committed an extra turnover, he responded in the second half, finishing with 14 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists.
I think he’s great. He understands the game, he’s good on screen, and he fits our defensive identity,” Mazura said. “I’m very happy with how he’s playing. He’s done a good job for us.”
Derrick White had 18 points and 6 assists in 24 minutes and looked ready for the regular season. With more opportunities to handle the ball, White scored on penetrating dribbles, reached the free-throw line five times, and added two 3-pointers.
White looked timid and uncomfortable last season after his midseason acquisition from the San Antonio Spurs.
▪ Kemba Walker, an official member of the Detroit Pistons, participated in games between the previous two teams and received a standing ovation. He still hopes to play in the NBA and his troubled knee is healthy.Walker still has doubts about playing with a bad knee during his playoff run in the Celtics bubble. said there is.
Although I have some regrets, I love playing basketball. I am a competitor,” he said. “We were at the bottom of the playoffs. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It happens. If I was in the same situation, I’m sure I probably would still be playing. No regrets.”
▪ It was clear that Tatum, Smart and Horford were working out all the way after the second shootaround bus that left for the team hotel was not in the lineup on Friday. It was. Brown also trained with the group, but according to Mazura, he decided to play to “keep the rhythm.” Brown finished with a team-leading 19 points.
▪ The Celtics didn’t see Gordon Hayward in two preseason matches against the Hornets. The former Celtic bumped his knee during practice and tried to keep training before the team shut him down. Made a contract. Instead, he continues to be plagued with injuries, and in his 2 seasons he has appeared in just 93 of his 154 games, and has missed both of his play-ins for the Hornets. .
▪ The Celtics only waived Denzel Valentine during training camp. The leading contenders are Luka Samanic, Brodrick Thomas and Jake Laiman, who could all play for Maine this season.JD Davison and Mfiondu Kabengele have signed two-way deals.
Justin Jackson and Bonley, who lost 8-0 to Toronto in the preseason, are likely candidates for a spot outside of camp. However, the Celtics may decide to keep a roster spot open for potential trade or free agent signers.
Jackson struggled early before draining three consecutive 3-pointers late in the third period to record his best game in the preseason. He finished with 16 points.
Injured players Danilo Gallinari and Robert Williams occupy roster spots, increasing the likelihood that the Celtics will open the season with 15 signed players.
Gary Washburn is a Globe columnist. He can be reached at gary.washburn@globe.com. follow him on twitter @GwashburnGlobe.
