NBA: Hayward-less Celtics continue winning streak

ANKARA

Boston Celtics defeated Dallas Mavericks 116-106 to maintain their hot start to NBA's new season on Monday.

Kemba Walker was unstoppable in Celtics' first game without star forward Gordon Hayward following his fractured hand injury.

Walker produced 29 points, five rebounds and five assists to lead Celtics to victory over Mavericks.

In addition to Walker's outstanding performance, Jaylen Brown posted double-double with 25 points and 11 rebounds for Celtics.

On the losing side, Slovenian guard Luka Doncic was the highest scorer on the court with 34 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists.

Celtics lost their season opener to the Philadelphia 76ers 107-93 but won eight games in a row.

With a 8-1 win/loss record, Celtics currently top the Eastern Conference.

Celtics star Hayward out for 6 weeks

The Eastern Conference franchise Celtics said on their website that US small forward Hayward underwent a surgery on Monday and is expect to return in six weeks.

He sustained a fractured hand injury on Saturday, as they defeated San Antonio Spurs 135-115 in Texas.

Hayward faced the injury when he collided with Spurs power forward LaMarcus Aldridge.

This season Hayward averaged 18.9 points, 7.1 rebounds and 4.1 assists.

Leonard, Clippers face Raptors, beat 98-88

Kawhi Leonard faced his former team Toronto Raptors on Monday evening, Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Raptors 98-88.

Leonard scored only 12 points, but contributed to other areas with 11 rebounds and 9 assists, posting a near triple double.

6th man Lou Williams was the high scorer for the Clippers, who dropped 21 points off the bench in 35 minutes of action.

Coming off the Lakers victory, the Raptors started the game hot, but down 5 points after suffering a 36-23 quarter from the Clippers.

Despite having the lead after the 3rd quarter, they could not hold on and outscored by Clippers' 25-10 in the last quarter.

Pascal Siakam was the top performer for the Raptors with 16 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists.

Results:

*Detroit Pistons - Minnesota Timberwolves: 114-120

*San Antonio Spurs - Memphis Grizzlies: 109-113

*Boston Celtics - Dallas Mavericks: 116-106

*New Orleans Pelicans - Houston Rockets: 116-122

*Los Angeles Clippers - Toronto Raptors: 98-88

*Golden State Warriors - Utah Jazz: 108-122

*Home team