Similar to how many other games have gone this season, the Celtics went back-and-forth with one of the league's best in the first half, but then fell apart in the second half to allow their opposition to pull away. The Celtics led the Pacers 50-42 at the half, but a poor third quarter allowed the Pacers to pull away en route to a 97-82 win over the Celtics at TD Garden Friday night. It was the sixth straight loss for the Celtics.
With the Celtics holding an eight-point halftime lead, the wheels fell off in the third quarter as they were outscored 25-8 and the Pacers never looked back. Despite the loss the Celtics shot 51 percent from the field, but it wasn't enough to defeat the now 11-1 Pacers. Jordan Crawford led the way for the Celtics pouring in 24 points, while Jeff Green added 20. Also finishing in double figures was Jared Sullinger as he contributed 13. As a team the Celtics turned the ball over 23 times, which isn't going to get it done against any opponent.
The Pacers were led by Paul George who had a game-high 27 points.
The Celtics will be back in action tomorrow night (7:30, CSNNE) as they travel to Atlanta to take on the Hawks.
What they'll be saying: After playing outstanding in the first half, it was disappointing to see such a poor third quarter as the team shot 3-for-14 from the field. Rookie center Kelly Olynyk left the game in the second quarter with what was called a sprained right ankle. Kris Humphries was forced into more action in the second half, but finished with just four points. The Celtics could have a tough time snapping their losing streak Saturday as the Hawks enter the game winners of four of their last five games.
