Celtics Dominate Pelicans, Tie 3-Point Record

Boston cruises to 144-118 victory, clinching the No. 2 seed in the East.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:58am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting a Celtics basketball game, with sharp, overlapping geometric planes in vibrant shades of green, white, and gold, capturing the team's dynamic offensive display.The Celtics' offensive onslaught against the Pelicans is captured in a cubist, geometric style, reflecting the team's dominant performance.New Orleans Today

The Boston Celtics put on an offensive showcase, routing the New Orleans Pelicans 144-118 and tying the NBA record for most 3-pointers made in a game with 29. Led by strong performances from their big men, including Nikola Vucevic and Luka Garza, the Celtics were in control from start to finish, even with star Jayson Tatum sidelined.

Why it matters

The dominant win clinches the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference for the Celtics, who are looking to make a deep playoff run. The team's impressive 3-point shooting and balanced scoring attack showcased their offensive firepower and depth, which could pose problems for opponents in the postseason.

The details

The Celtics were firing on all cylinders, with Vucevic shooting a perfect 4-of-4 from the field and 3-of-3 from 3-point range in the first half. Rookie Luka Garza also made an impact, fighting for offensive rebounds and finishing strong at the rim. The Celtics' barrage of 3-pointers, including contributions from Derrick White, Sam Hauser, and Baylor Scheierman, overwhelmed the Pelicans' defense.

  • The Celtics clinched the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference with the win on Friday, April 10, 2026.
  • Boston tied the NBA record for most 3-pointers made in a game with 29 on April 10, 2026.

The players

Nikola Vucevic

A veteran center for the Boston Celtics who had a strong shooting performance, going 4-of-4 from the field and 3-of-3 from 3-point range in the first half.

Luka Garza

A rookie big man for the Celtics who made an impact with his hustle, offensive rebounding, and finishing ability around the rim.

Neemias Queta

A Celtics player who hit his first 3-pointer of the season in the game.

Jayson Tatum

The Celtics' star player who was sidelined for this game.

Joe Mazzulla

The Celtics' head coach who will have a tough decision to make regarding his rotation of big men come playoff time.

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What they’re saying

“Sometimes, the shots just have to fall. That was the case for Nikola Vucevic, and now, it's clear what he can bring to the Celtics' lineup.”

— Boston Sports Journal

“Garza didn't miss a beat. He fought on the offensive glass, was active on the defensive end, and even finished two and-ones.”

— Boston Sports Journal

What’s next

The Celtics will look to carry their strong play into the playoffs as they aim to make a deep postseason run.

The takeaway

The Celtics' dominant performance, highlighted by their record-tying 3-point shooting and balanced scoring attack, showcased the team's offensive firepower and depth, which could make them a formidable opponent in the upcoming NBA playoffs.