Due to personal reasons sidelining Derrick White and Al Horford’s absence for rest during Monday’s back-to-back for the Celtics, Sam Hauser made his second start this season. Jordan Walsh and JD Davison were called up from Maine, and if White’s absence persists, one of them may continue with the team.

Despite a sloppy start with six turnovers in the first quarter, the Celtics managed to hold a 31-25 lead at the end of the period. Payton Pritchard’s four three-pointers off the bench played a crucial role.

Payton Pritchard’s impressive performance continued in the second quarter, contributing to the Celtics’ 65-54 lead at halftime. Jayson Tatum also excelled, scoring 23 points in the quarter, matching his career high for points in a first half.

A noteworthy play in the first half showcased teamwork with Tatum grabbing a defensive rebound, swiftly advancing the ball to Pritchard, who then set up Oshae Brissett for an unselfish assist to Luke Kornet for a dunk.

The Hornets responded with a 17-5 run, narrowing the gap to six points, but Tatum’s stellar second quarter kept the Celtics in control.

Charlotte opened the third quarter with a 9-0 run, cutting the Celtics’ lead. Despite a slow start to the second half, Boston held an 87-81 advantage heading into the final quarter.

Pritchard continued to make significant contributions in the fourth quarter, hitting a crucial three-pointer and assisting Svi Mykhailiuk for another. However, a late 7-0 run by the Hornets forced overtime, with LaMelo Ball’s drive tying the game.

Despite a strong effort by Jrue Holiday and a three-pointer by Tatum, the Celtics found themselves trailing 119-116 in overtime. Gordon Hayward’s foul on Tatum extended the game briefly, but the Hornets secured the win with a decisive defensive play.

The Celtics’ struggles in the second half, shooting 34 percent from the field and 26.1 percent from beyond the arc, led to a come-from-behind victory for the Hornets. The Celtics were outscored 54-43 in the second half.

The Celtics will face the Milwaukee Bucks at TD Garden on Wednesday night, aiming to bounce back after a challenging road trip. The game is scheduled to tip off at 7:30 EST.