Summer League: Thunder 94, Celtics 82

Posted by Brian Robb on Jul 8, 2009 27413 commentshttp%3A%2F%2Fcelticshub.com%2F2009%2F07%2F08%2Fsummer-league-thunder-94-celtics-82%2FSummer+League%3A+Thunder+94%2C+Celtics+822009-07-09+02%3A56%3A49Brian+Robbhttp%3A%2F%2Fcelticshub.com%2F%3Fp%3D2741

The Celtics fell again today in Summer Ball play this afternoon in Orlando 94-82 to a talented Thunder squad featuring Russell Westbrook among other potential rotation candidates for Oklahoma City. As could be expected, the C’s had a number of up and down performances from their young prospects. J.R. Giddens led the way with 16 points combining a good shooting nights (7 of 13) with some overall sloppy play (6 turnovers).

In the under the radar department, former Tennessee sharpshooter Chris Lofton continued his strong shooting display going 4 of 5 from downtown in only 15 minutes of play. Overall he is shooting just under 70 percent from downtown during his three games in Orlando, and could be earning himself an extended look by the C’s (or another team in need of a shooter) later this year.

The big news of the game however came with the news that C’s 2nd round pick Lester Hudson broke his finger during the 1st half. The Herald had reaction from Hudson and his agent regarding the injury:

“It’s very tough because I want to show Danny (Ainge) and the coaches what I can do,” said Hudson. “But I won’t be out there to do it now. I think I can still play right now, but I have to sit back.”

Lance Young, Hudson’s agent, said he was told that the 6-1 guard may need surgery, and have a pin put in the finger.

There’s a danger in that for Hudson, who has not signed a contract.

All in all, a tough situation for the guard out of UT-Martin, who had a strong start in Orlando and had earned compliments from David Thorpe of ESPN for his defensive pressure on the ball during the first two games. Here’s hoping he will be completely recovered by the time training camp begins.