Celtics Reserves Secure Play-In Spot for Magic with Clutch Win

Garza's late 3-pointer caps off a surprise victory for Boston's bench players over Orlando.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:56am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in vibrant colors, breaking down a basketball game into sharp, overlapping geometric planes and abstract shapes, capturing the dynamic energy and movement of the game.A cubist interpretation of the Celtics' bench mob delivering a clutch victory, showcasing the power of team depth in the modern NBA.Boston Today

In a surprising turn of events, the Boston Celtics' reserves stepped up in a big way to defeat the Orlando Magic 113-108 on Sunday night. With stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown resting, players like Baylor Scheierman, Luka Garza, and Ron Harper Jr. took over, combining for 84 points to secure a crucial win that helps the Magic clinch a spot in the NBA play-in tournament.

Why it matters

This game showcased the value of depth in the modern NBA, as the Celtics' bench players were able to outperform the Magic's starters and deliver a statement win. It highlights how teams that cultivate a strong supporting cast can thrive even when their top players are out, challenging the common reliance on star power.

The details

The Celtics leaned heavily on their reserves, who stepped up in a major way. Baylor Scheierman poured in a career-high 30 points, Luka Garza added 27 points including a clutch 3-pointer late, and Ron Harper Jr. chipped in 27 as well. This balanced scoring attack from the bench proved too much for the Magic, who were led by a near triple-double from Paolo Banchero but couldn't overcome Boston's depth.

  • The game took place on Sunday, April 13, 2026.
  • The win helps the Magic clinch a spot in the NBA play-in tournament.

The players

Baylor Scheierman

A Celtics reserve player who scored a career-high 30 points in the win.

Luka Garza

A Celtics reserve player who hit a clutch 3-pointer late to secure the victory for Boston.

Ron Harper Jr.

A Celtics reserve player who contributed 27 points to the team's bench scoring outburst.

Paolo Banchero

The Magic's star player, who recorded a near triple-double in the losing effort.

Jalen Suggs

A Magic player who provided a late surge but couldn't overcome the Celtics' depth.

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What’s next

The Magic will now shift their focus to the high-pressure play-in scenario against the Philadelphia 76ers, where they will look to secure a playoff spot.

The takeaway

This game showcases the value of depth in the modern NBA, as the Celtics' bench players were able to step up and deliver a statement win over the Magic. It highlights how teams that invest in developing a strong supporting cast can thrive even when their top players are out, challenging the common reliance on star power.