Hornets Crush Celtics In Home Opener

 The New Orleans Hornets crushed the Boston Celtics 97-78 in front of a soldout crowd at the Hive in the home opener for the fleur-de-bees.

Defense was the story for the home team. The Hornets held the Celtics to 37% from the field. New Orleans also finished with 12 blocks, the most they've had in a game since 2005.

Another impressive note in NOLA's 19 point victory was doing it without shooting guard Eric Gordon. Gordon, the star of the Hornet's season opening win on Monday in Phoenix, was held out due to a bruised left knee.

Jarrett Jack, who missed Monday's game with a suspension, was simply outstanding. The Hornets starting point guard led all scorers with 21 points. He also chipped in 9 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 blocks, and a steal.

Power forward Carl Landry (pictued left) finished with a double-double in only 29 minutes of play. His 20 points and 11 rebounds helped New Orleans outscore Boston in the paint 46-24. Newly acquired Hornet Chris Kaman was another big reason for NOLA's dominance down low, finishing with 13 points and 9 boards, to go along with his 3 blocks.

Speaking of blocks, starting Center Emeka Okafor finished with 5, as well as 13 points and 6 rebounds. Marco Belinelli, who started for Gordon at shooting guard, was 3 of 4 from from behind the arc, chipping in 13 points overall.

Hornets head coach Monty Williams will look to guide his team to a 3-0 start for the second straight season this Friday as New Orleans host the Phoenix Suns at the Hive. Tip-off is set for 7:00.