BOSTON _ A two-game winning streak looked promising for the Charlotte Hornets' pursuit of defense. Then, Sunday happened.
The Hornets' streak of eight quarters not giving up 30 points came to a crashing end in the second quarter, when the Boston Celtics piled up 39. That led to a 21-point halftime lead and a 119-103 Celtics victory.
The loss dropped the Hornets to 16-16. They are off for the Christmas holiday until Wednesday in Brooklyn, when they play the first of consecutive games against the Nets.
The Celtics (19-13) had an exceptional shooting quarter in the second, making 14 of 24 attempts from the field and six of eight from 3-point range. But just as costly was the Hornets deficient rebounding: In the second, the Celtics beat the Hornets on the boards 16-12.
Celtics guard Kyrie Irving scored 17 points in the first quarter, making six of seven shots from the field and all three of his 3s. He finished with 25 points, only because there was no need for him to play extended minutes after halftime.
The Hornets got 21 points from Kemba Walker.
