Depleted Hornets Face a Reshaped Celtics Roster in Preseason Test

Boston's depth and new frontcourt size should outlast a Charlotte group missing several contributors.

CHA @ BOS Oct 14, 2026 at 11:30 PM UTC

Preseason box scores rarely tell the whole story, but this game at TD Garden offers a clear contrast: a Boston team still defining its new identity against a Charlotte roster thinned by injuries.

The Celtics look different after sending Jaylen Brown to Philadelphia this summer. The expected core is Jayson Tatum, Paul George and Derrick White, a group that sets a heavy defensive tone. Boston has also been sitting its top players in the preseason, though, and the reports say that approach will continue. That means the early minutes may go to a backup-heavy group, and what we see won't necessarily preview the regular-season rotation. Boston still has more available talent and more certainty about its roles than Charlotte does.

The Hornets' problem is availability. Kon Knueppel, Coby White and Grant Williams are all expected to miss the game, with hamstring and knee issues also affecting others. That shrinks Charlotte's rotation and could push young or fringe players into extended minutes against Boston's length and defensive pressure. Shorthanded teams tend to fade late in preseason games, especially when the opponent keeps cycling fresh bodies.

The addition of Mitchell Robinson gives Boston a real edge on the glass. He is the league's best offensive rebounder, and second-chance points could be a steady source of offense if Charlotte can't match his size. Opponents have used Hack-A-Mitch against him, so how Boston handles that late in games is worth watching. Derrick White's shooting is another thing to watch: he shot a career-worst 32.7 percent from three last season, and he says he has moved past the confidence issues.

Expect some sloppy stretches and plenty of substitutions. Boston's depth, rebounding and defensive structure should still be enough to pull away in the second half.

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