Shorthanded Celtics upset Magic in 113-108 stunner

Boston's bench steps up with stars resting ahead of playoffs

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:53am

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the dynamic movement and intensity of a basketball game, with players' forms blending together in a vibrant, expressionistic style.The Celtics' bench players delivered a stunning performance, outworking the Magic to secure a crucial regular season finale victory.Boston Today

The Boston Celtics, with just eight players available, pulled off a surprising 113-108 victory over the Orlando Magic on Sunday night. Led by career-high performances from Luka Garza, Ron Harper Jr., and Baylor Scheierman, the undermanned Celtics outworked the Magic to secure the win in their regular season finale.

Why it matters

The Celtics' ability to win with a shorthanded roster showcases the depth they've developed this season and provides momentum heading into the playoffs, where they will face the winner of a Play-In Tournament matchup between the Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic.

The details

With stars Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Neemias Queta, and Derrick White resting, the Celtics relied on their bench players to step up. Center Luka Garza had a career-high 27 points, including a crucial 3-pointer late in the game. Guard Ron Harper Jr., making his first career start, also scored a career-high 27 points. Wing Baylor Scheierman led all scorers with a career-high 30 points in almost 39 minutes of play.

  • The game took place on Sunday, April 13, 2026.
  • The Celtics' first-round playoff series will begin on Sunday afternoon at TD Garden.

The players

Luka Garza

Celtics center who had a career-high 27 points in the win.

Ron Harper Jr.

Celtics guard who scored a career-high 27 points in his first career start.

Baylor Scheierman

Celtics wing who led all scorers with a career-high 30 points.

Jayson Tatum

Celtics star who rested for the game.

Jaylen Brown

Celtics star who rested for the game.

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What they’re saying

“We knew we had to step up with the guys out, and I'm proud of how the whole team responded. It was a total team effort.”

— Luka Garza, Celtics center

“This win shows the depth we've built all season. Everyone contributed and played their hearts out. That's Celtics basketball.”

— Ron Harper Jr., Celtics guard

What’s next

The Celtics will face the winner of a Play-In Tournament matchup between the Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic in the first round of the playoffs, which begin on Sunday afternoon at TD Garden.

The takeaway

The Celtics' ability to win with a shorthanded roster demonstrates the team's depth and resilience, providing a positive momentum boost heading into the playoffs. This victory showcases the team's strong bench and the development of role players, which could prove crucial in the postseason.