BOSTON — The Celtics were blown out for the first time this season as the Rockets dominated them 128-101 Saturday at TD Garden. The loss snapped a three-game win streak for the C’s, who fell to 3-4 on the season.
Baylor Scheierman had his best outing of the season against the Rockets, making him Saturday’s “Name to Know” Player of the Game. The Name to Know Player of the Game is sponsored by John’s Sewer and Drain Cleaning, the Name to Know when your drains don’t flow.
“It’s my second year, I kind of knew what to expect coming into preseason, and then even just these games,” Scheierman said. “And so I think it kind of gives me a peace of mind when I’m going throughout the season, knowing there’s going to be highs and lows, and just being able to stay steady and ride those and just be ready whenever my number is called.”
Scheierman finished with 17 points and five rebounds on 6-for-7 shooting, including 4-for-5 on 3-pointers. It’s been a slow burn to start the season for Scheierman, but he showed life Saturday. With the Celtics on the second leg of a back-to-back, they leaned on their bench.
To Scheierman’s credit, he showed flashes in recent games in spot minutes, though he didn’t get much of an opportunity. Josh Minott has emerged as the fifth starter for the Celtics as his size and energy have been huge pluses. Rookie Hugo Gonzalez has also looked solid on the defensive end.
Scheierman has been in the mix as it’s clear he’s above Jordan Walsh on the depth chart, at least for now. Scheierman scored just three total points in his first five games of the season, so him finding his shot Saturday was a positive development.
C’s coach Joe Mazzulla’s rotation has changed on a nightly basis as he tinkers with lineups. Scheierman has been given some minutes to see if he can produce. But it’ll also be about showing value beyond just making shots for the second-year pro going forward.
The Celtics saw their three-game win streak come to an end at the hands of the Rockets. They came off a one-point win over the 76ers on Friday last time out. But the Rockets, with their size, are a tough matchup for the smaller Celtics. Plus, with it being the second game of a back-to-back, the C’s conceded early.
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