Celtics hum a defensive tune in Silencing the Jazz

Boston opened with a 10-0 run and led by as many as 36 points in the first half before cruising to their 17th straight win at home.

Utah’s Lauri Markkanen, like Utah’s chances at the upset against Boston, is turned away, as Boston’s Kristaps Porzingis blocks his shot. Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

BOSTON — Moments into Boston’s Friday night matchup against Utah, Celtics guard Jrue Holiday drove into the lane and threw down a left-handed slam.

It was the first of many moments that went better than expected for the Boston Celtics.

Holiday’s basket was the catalyst to a game-opening 10-0 Celtics run that set the tone for a 126-97 victory over the Jazz.

Boston, which led by as many as 36 points, had no problem cooling off a Utah Jazz team that came into Friday’s game playing some of its best basketball this season.

It didn’t matter; not against a Celtics team that soon showed why they are a top-three club in offensive and defensive rating - the only team in the NBA with that distinction thus far this season.

The Celtics didn’t just win.

They delivered the kind of statement victory that reminded Utah or anyone else watching, why they are the owners of the best record (27-7) in the NBA.

And while it was a collective effort in Boston’s victory to remain undefeated (17-0) at home, there were a number of individual standouts.

Here’s a look at the Stars, Studs and Duds from Boston’s emphatic blowout win over Utah.