Celtics Defeat Hornets in Preseason Contest
The Boston Celtics beat the Charlotte Hornets 114-93 in a preseason game at TD Garden. Charlotte rookie Christian Anderson scored 10 points in his unofficial NBA debut, and Tidjane Salaün finished with 16 points. The Hornets, who were missing several rotation players, will next play in Memphis on Friday.
Boston secured a 114-93 preseason win over Charlotte at TD Garden. The Hornets were without Coby White, Kon Knueppel, Grant Williams, and Grayson Allen, but welcomed 2026 No. 18 pick Christian Anderson for his first exhibition appearance. He scored 10 points on 4-of-8 shooting.
Tidjane Salaün added 16 points, making 5-of-9 shots and 4-of-8 threes, though he had four turnovers and three fouls. Charlotte also held Boston to nine offensive rebounds and 19 second-chance points. The Hornets visit Memphis on Friday.
This preseason result may matter most to Charlotte's young players and coaching staff, offering evaluation chances while veterans sit. Anderson's debut could boost his confidence and fan interest, while Salaün's improved scoring may shape expectations. For Boston, a home win may reinforce depth. Broader impact is limited because preseason games do not count, but they can still affect player development, roster decisions, and local engagement.