Defense is key as streaking Celtics host red-hot Hornets

The Boston Celtics will enter their matchup on Wednesday night against the visiting Charlotte Hornets having won 12 of their past 14 games.

Boston has been getting the job done with defense and depth.

The Celtics overcame the absences of leading scorer Jaylen Brown (illness) and starting center Neemias Queta (rest) on Monday in their 108-81 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. Boston has surrendered fewer than 100 points in nine of its past 13 wins and is allowing an average of 107.0...