After a strong start, the Boston Celtics (2-3) were able to comfortably beat the Washington Wizards (3-2) by a score of 118-98.
The Celtics got off to a hot start, finishing the first half up 72-49. Center Kelly Olynyk shone off the bench, stuffing the stat sheet for 19 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and four steals, while finishing a game-high plus-29. Olynyk also knocked in three attempts from beyond the three-point line. The team went without sophomore guard Marcus Smart (toe) for the second straight game. However, Boston was able to make up for the absence of the guard's strong defense, holding Washington to just 40.9 percent from the field and forcing 24 turnovers on the night.
Despite the tough loss, Friday's game marked the continuation of the emergence of Washington guard Bradley Beal. Beal posted a game-high 24 points, and has now racked up at least 24 points in each game of the season thus far. With many teammates struggling to find their shots, Beal was able to lead the charge on offense. Now, the fourth-year guard is averaging over 25 points per game and is leading the Wizards in scoring. His rise to prominance should be an interesting story to watch as he shares the backcourt with All-Star John Wall.
The Wizards will seek to brush off the blowout as they prepare to play Saturday. Washington will be taking on the 5-1 Hawks in Atlanta. Meanwhile, the Celtics will have a few days of rest before taking on the Bucks in Milwaukee on Tuesday.
