Hornets Dominate Celtics in Boston
“We just didn’t have it tonight,” said Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla following a disappointing 118-89 loss to the Charlotte Hornets at TD Garden on March 4, 2026. The Celtics struggled to find their rhythm, allowing the Hornets to seize control of the game early on.
The Hornets, led by Kon Knueppel’s 20 points, showcased a well-rounded offensive effort. Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball each contributed 18 points, while Coby White added 17 points and six assists. This victory marked the Hornets’ sixth consecutive win, improving their record to 32-31 and placing them above .500 for the first time since October 26, 2022.
In stark contrast, the Celtics saw Derrick White lead their scoring with 29 points, but it was not enough to overcome the Hornets’ offensive onslaught. Jaylen Brown added 20 points and 11 rebounds, but he acknowledged the team’s lack of energy, stating, “That wasn’t Celtic basketball. They had more energy than us.”
The Hornets dominated the game, leading by as many as 29 points. Their defense was particularly effective, limiting their turnovers to just five, while the Celtics struggled with 16 turnovers and shot only 38% from the field. This performance halted the Celtics’ three-game win streak.
“They’re playing really well… they’re a good team,” remarked Derrick White, highlighting the Hornets’ recent form. The Hornets have made significant improvements since the start of 2026, aiming for their first postseason appearance since 2016.
As the teams look ahead, the Hornets will host the Miami Heat on Friday, while the Celtics will face the Dallas Mavericks. Both teams will seek to rebound from this matchup, with the Hornets looking to extend their winning streak and the Celtics aiming to regain their momentum.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes in team strategies or player lineups as they prepare for their upcoming games.
