New Orleans PelicansOpen full analysis
Boston CelticsOpen full analysis
The Boston Celtics defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 144–118 on April 10 at TD Garden, surpassing the Vegas total of 227.5 with a dominant offensive display. Sam Hauser led Boston with 24 points alongside Jaylen Brown's 23, as the Celtics shot 54.2 percent from the field and made 29 three-pointers to establish early control. New Orleans' J. Fears countered with a team-high 36 points and D. Queen added 25, but the Pelicans' 45.8 field-goal percentage and just nine three-pointers proved insufficient. Boston's defensive rating of 109.1 clamped down on New Orleans' 109.1 offensive rating, while the Celtics' 135.1 offensive efficiency showcased their spacing and ball movement with 35 assists. The game was decided early: Boston's 44-point first quarter set the tone, and New Orleans never recovered despite outscoring Boston 36–28 in the fourth. Boston's depth and three-point prowess continue to separate them in the standings.
