Final: Pelicans 123, Celtics 108 -- C's can't slow down Zion, Pelicans

Kemba Walker scored a game-high 35 points but it was not enough for a shorthanded Celtics squad missing Jayson Tatum and Enes Kanter as the Pelicans had their way on the offensive end all night long in a 123-108 victory. Zion Williamson posted 21 points and 11 rebounds in his first career win while Jrue Holiday added 25 points for the hosts as a fully healthy Pelicans squad looked nothing like a 18-29 squad that they’ve been to date.

Boston struggled mightily on the glass in this one as the Pelicans piled up 18 offensive rebounds while also shooting 44 percent from 3-point range, scoring 29 points or more in all fourth quarters. Gordon Hayward added 25 points and Jaylen Brown scored 20 points in his return from a sprained ankle but it was not enough to keep pace with the Pelicans firepower, especially with Boston’s bench getting outscored 38-8.

Both teams paid tribute to Kobe Bryant during the game with a pair of 24-second violations to honor the Lakers star on the day of his death, setting the tone for a tough day to play basketball for everyone.

The C’s have their three-game winning streak snapped and head now to close out their three-game road trip with a matchup in Miami Tuesday night.

• Enes Kanter and Rob Williams are both out. Jayson Tatum (groin) was declared out as well, while Jaylen Brown is back active after missing two games with a sprained ankle.


• The Pelicans should have close to a full squad with Kenrich Williams being the only rotation member sidelined. Zion Williamson is expected to remain on a minutes limit in his third game back from a knee injury. He's averaging 18.5 ppg on 75 percent shooting from the field in his first two appearances.


• Gordon Hayward is averaging 20-7-4 while shooting 48 percent from the field and 50 percent from 3-point range during the C's latest three-game winning streak.


• Tacko Fall will remain with the Celtics for the second straight game as center depth off the bench behind Vincent Poirier. Romeo Langford remains on assignment with the Red Claws as they won a pair of games this weekend on the road.