The new-look Cleveland Cavaliers trounced the Eastern Conference leading Celtics in Boston last night, putting a damper on the Paul Pierce jersey retirement ceremony that took place after the game.
Because of the decision to honor Pierce at the conclusion of the game rather than at halftime, Celtics fans and Pierce's former teammates, like Kevin Garnett and Rajon Rondo, were forced to watch the entirety of Cleveland's 121-99 victory.
After the win, LeBron James spoke highly of his new teammates, George Hill, Rodney Hood, Jordan Clarkson and Larry Nance Jr, who combined for 49 points and helped limited the Celtics to just 40.4% shooting from the field.
Per ESPN,
"It was a good start," James said. "It's almost like the new guys have been here."
"It started with George and his on-the-ball pressure and him just running the team," James said of Hill, who had 12 points, three rebounds and an assist as the starting point guard. "And then the three guys came off the bench. Jordan was -- he's ready to score at any time, but his composure was great. Rodney plays with so much poise, and Larry was just controlling the perimeter, setting great pick-and-rolls. Got him a lob, got him a dunk, so it was a good start for the new guys, a good start for all of us with our revamped team so far."
As a result of last night's blowout win, the Celtics have now dropped a half-game back of the Toronto Raptors for the top spot in the East. The Cavs are still sitting in third place with a 33-22 record.
Check out some reactions to last night's thumping at the TD Garden below.
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