BOSTON — In order for the Boston Celtics to make headway this season they will need great contribution from their bench and it all started on Wednesday night. Isaiah Thomas netted 27 points during the Celtics season opening win over the Philadelphia 76ers.
Thomas wasn’t the only bench contribution on Wednesday, the C’s outscored the Sixers 67-15 from the bench. “Our bench has to be a great source of energy, scoring for us and everything else for us,” said Boston’s Head Coach Brad Stevens.
Following Thomas’ 27 points, reserves Amir Johnson had 15 points on his own to go along with seven rebounds, and Jared Sullinger picked up 12 points, also with seven boards. Jae Crowder led the way for the starting-five with 14 points and six rebounds.
Thomas knows his place on the team and his role is important to him. He adds a certain spark of energy from Boston’s bench. The guard finished 10-for-15 from the floor and had seven assists.
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That’s my job. I’ve got a job to do. I have confidence in myself and my teammates do, too,” said Thomas.
Boston overcame an early nine-point hole, triggered by 2015 third overall pick Jahlil Okafor, who connected on his first five shots. Okafor led all 76ers with 26 points, a solid start to his NBA career.
After a couple lead changes and a couple ties, the Celtics got out to a 86-71 lead in the final quarter and didn’t look back. “Any time they cut it close, I thought we responded,” Stevens said.
A solid start to the 2015-16 season for the Celtics, who welcome the Toronto Raptors on Friday at the TD Garden, and a great followup to a solid 6-1 preseason record.
Will this team have enough to finish better then their 40-42 record from last season? Will they make a move at some point to add some star power to the lineup? It’s only the first game in the season, lets see how things play out.
