Charlotte Hornets head coach Charles Lee highlighted his team’s composure after a 118-89 win over the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on Wednesday night.
The victory extended Charlotte’s win streak to six games and improved their record to 32-31, moving above .500 for the first time since October 26.
Lee credited his players for controlling what they could despite travel and back-to-back scheduling. “They did a great job of controlling what they could control, embracing a little bit of travel adversity and just focusing on the things again that we could control,” he said.
The Hornets held Boston under 100 points for the fourth time in the last six games, demonstrating defensive consistency. “The ability to be consistent throughout a whole game is really good,” Lee said. “We went to multiple coverages and they executed it really well and committed to the game plan.”
Lee highlighted the impact of Coby White, who finished with 17 points and six assists. “It is something about when you have a guy like that, that’s battle tested, been through a ton of experiences as a high-level thinker and basketball player, how you feel comfortable putting the ball in his hands at times,” he said.
White, along with Brandon Miller, LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel, and Miles Bridges, contributed to Charlotte’s balanced attack. “He adds a lot to our environment and to our product on the court,” Lee said.
Knueppel led the team with 20 points while Miller and Ball added 18 each, and the Hornets committed only five turnovers. Lee emphasized the importance of executing under pressure. “I think our guys did a good job again of just responding,” he said.
Lee also reflected on coaching against Boston in their home arena. “It was nice for me, but it’s way more about those guys and how they play and all the hard work that they put in,” he said.
The Hornets dominated early, sprinting to an 8-0 lead as Boston missed its first eight shots. Charlotte extended the advantage to 64-43 by halftime, taking advantage of Boston’s shooting struggles.
“They never let up and executed the game plan,” Lee said. “I’m proud of the whole group.”
The Hornets host Miami on Friday, aiming to continue their winning streak, while Boston returns home to face Dallas.
