The Boston Celtics defeated the Charlotte Hornets, 140-105, at TD Garden on Monday night.

The Celtics (17-4) rightfully came into the contest as sizable favorites as the NBA's winningest team, and they immediately validated that standing by jumping out to a 45-19 lead through the first 12 minutes. The Hornets (6-15) were only able to put a three-point dent into their deficit before halftime, but Boston put an unequivocal stop to any thoughts of a possible comeback by putting up a 43-point total in the third quarter on its way to the easy win. Charlotte shot 48.8 percent also committed 20 turnovers and surrendered a 59.1 percent success rate from the floor to the hosts.

Jalen McDaniels led the Hornets with 24 points, adding two assists and one rebound. Kelly Oubre furnished 22 points, five boards, three assists and two steals. P.J. Washington compiled 16 points, two rebounds, two assists and one block. Theo Maledon delivered 11 points, eight assists, four rebounds and three steals. Bryce McGowens registered 10 points, six assists, two rebounds and one block.

Jayson Tatum paced the Celtics with 35 points, complementing them with three rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block. Marcus Smart generated a 22-point, 15-assist double-double that included two rebounds and two steals. Malcolm Brogdon supplied 21 points, six assists and five rebounds. Derrick White tallied 15 points, six assists, two rebounds and one steal. Sam Hauser posted 11 points, three rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal.

The Hornets head back home to face the Washington Wizards on Friday night, while the Celtics remain home and host the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night.