Celtics Edge Pelicans in Injury‑Marred Finale to Regular Season

The Boston Celtics secured a narrow victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on April 10, 2026, in a game that carried significant playoff implications for Boston and little at stake for a struggling New Orleans squad.

Key Moments

• Boston held on late, with a decisive layup in the final minute that sealed the win.
• The Pelicans, sitting at 26‑54, were hampered by the absence of multiple starters, a situation that has left the franchise effectively out of postseason contention.

Injury Landscape

• The Celtics entered the contest without Jayson Tatum, ruled out for the game, and with Jaylen Brown listed as questionable.
• New Orleans’ injury list was even longer, featuring multiple starters on the sidelines, a factor that coach James Borrego has said forces a focus on the future rather than the present.

Bigger Picture

• Boston’s victory keeps the No. 2 seed within reach; the team must win one of its final two games to clinch the spot, as the Knicks look to close the gap.
• The Pelicans, meanwhile, head into the offseason with a disappointing record and a roster that will need significant retooling.

Recent History

• The two teams met earlier in the season on Oct 27, 2025, with Boston also prevailing, underscoring a growing gap between the Eastern contender and the rebuilding Western club.