After losing close games against the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Toronto Raptors, the Boston Celtics took care of business Monday night as they were able to defeat the Atlanta Hawks 99-76 in what was supposed to be a tough road matchup.
Nate Robinson got the starting nod again from head coach Doc Rivers as he decided to let Rajon Rondo sit out to rest a hamstring injury he suffered last week against the Thunder. Robinson had another successful night, scoring 16 points and dishing 10 assists. Robinson was 4-for-5 from the three-point line, including two consecutive threes midway through the fourth quarter.
Kevin Garnett had a very strong showing, leading all scorers with 17 points while grabbing 11 rebounds. Paul Pierce and Shaquille O'Neal totaled the same amount of points with 13, and O'Neal added 11 rebounds.
Ray Allen showed his struggles again as he only managed nine points and was 4-of-8 from the field. Allen only attempted two three-point baskets and connected on one of them. This is the second consecutive game in which Allen has struggled from beyond the arc.
The bench had a solid showing in the forth quarter as the second-team offense combined for 27 points including six points from Delonte West and seven from Glen Davis.
Rookie Avery Bradley made his NBA debut late in the fourth quarter and scored two points in six minutes.
The Celtics return home to face the New Jersey Nets Wednesday night at 7:30 p.m.