Rajon Rondo had seven points, two assists and two rebounds as the Boston Celtics trail the Brooklyn Nets, 24-22, on Christmas Day from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.
After losing four of their last five games, the Celtics wanted to get off to a hot start against the Nets.
Their offense got rolling, scoring all eight of their points in the paint to start the quarter. Boston's offense would move the ball steadily throughout the quarter, receiving even contribution from the bench for nine points.
Over the first half of the quarter, Jason Collins was arguably one of the most productive Celtics, scoring two points, grabbing two offensive rebounds and drawing a charge.
Brooklyn struggled to start the quarter, but found their rhythm, pushing to lead for most the quarter. The Celtics' focus on defensive rotations, even with Kevin Garnett out of the game, allowed them to keep the contest close.
Brook Lopez led the Nets with nine points and two rebounds in the first quarter.
Brooklyn shot 56 percent in the quarter, while the Celtics notched 41 percent from the field.
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