A solid Blake Griffin debut allows shorthanded Celtics to sting Hornets

The Celtics are searching for a reliable third center behind Al Horford and Luke Kornet, who did not travel because of a sprained ankle. Griffin is the likely choice, immediately providing stability in the paint with strong decision making.

“Wind-wise I was fine, but I felt like I was pretty sped up,” he said. “I missed easy [shots], a bad turnover here and there. I haven’t really played 5-on-5, just getting that rhythm. Starting a little late and I got some work to do, but I’ll be fine.”

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla gave some of the second unit players and camp invitees extensive minutes, and the club outscored the Hornets, 71-49, in the second and third periods after falling behind, 35-22, after one quarter. He wanted to get a long look at Griffin, who joined the team Monday and participated in two practices. He was impressed.

“I think he’ll be good for our offense, just his ability to screen and move the ball,” Mazzulla said. “I thought he helped us on the glass. We’re able to put him in some good positions defensively, which will help our lineup.”

Al Horford, Marcus Smart, Jayson Tatum, and Malcolm Brogdon got the night off, giving journeyman Noah Vonleh a real chance to make an impression in the starting frontcourt. After a rough first half where he committed three illegal screens and an additional turnover, he responded in the second half, finishing with 14 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists.

“I think he’s great; he understands the game, screens well, fits into our defensive identity,” Mazzulla said. “Very happy with the way he played. He did some good things for us.”

Derrick White looked ready for the regular season with 18 points and six assists in 24 minutes, even providing strong defense when the small lineup mandated he play power forward. With more of an opportunity to handle the ball, White scored on dribble penetration, reached the free throw line five times, and added two 3-pointers.

White looked timid and uncomfortable for stretches last season after being a midseason acquisition from the San Antonio Spurs, but he appeared to be the team’s biggest beneficiary from a full training camp.

▪ Kemba Walker, still officially a member of the Detroit Pistons, attended the game between two of his former teams and received a standing ovation. He said he’s still looking to play in the NBA and his troublesome knee is healthy. Walker said that he still questions playing on the bad knee during the Celtics’ bubble playoff run.

“Some regrets there but I love to play basketball; I’m a competitor,” he said. “We were deep in the playoffs. It was a once-in-a-lifetime type opportunity. It happens. I’m pretty sure if I was in the same situation, I probably would still play. No…