Big test for the Hornets tonight in Boston. The Celtics have started 3-0, including huge blowouts of the Bulls and Bobcats in Beantown.

The C’s are fully healthy (apart from Glen Davis), and provide all kinds of problems at both ends of the floor. They’ve shown a balanced offensive attack and stingy defense in all three of their wins.

The Hornets haven’t inspired confidence in their opening two games, getting blown out in San Antonio on Wednesday, and needing all 48 minutes to beat the visiting Kings on Friday.

Still, no telling how tonight’s game will turn out, especially since Chris Paul could unleash the dragon on Rajon Rondo.

On the injury front, Ike Diogu reportedly practiced yesterday but will remain inactive for this one with a strained left knee.

Linkage:

• Lagniappe: Rip Hamilton, rookie treatment, and dismissing the notion that Chris Paul puts up big numbers because he dribbles around a lot.
• Ray Allen does Halloween better than you
• Rival bloggers: CelticsBlog | CelticsHub.com (THN) | RedsArmy.com

(Many thanks to Dariusz for the banner. Plenty more lined up.)