Celtics Secure First Win of Season, Defeat Pelicans 122-90

The Boston Celtics earned their first victory of the 2025-26 NBA season yesterday, defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 122-90 in a dominant performance at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.

Anfernee Simons led the Celtics with 25 points, including six 3-pointers, while Payton Pritchard added 18 points. Boston closed out the game with a remarkable 31-4 run over the final 9:14 of the fourth quarter after leading by only five points. Simons scored 12 of his points in the fourth quarter, contributing to the team’s impressive surge. Luka Garza and Jaylen Brown each contributed 16 and 15 points respectively. This win comes as a relief for the Celtics, who began the season with three consecutive losses.

Jordan Poole was the Pelicans’ leading scorer with 22 points, while rookie Derik Queen added 12. However, New Orleans struggled without Zion Williamson, who missed the game due to a left foot bone bruise. Williamson had previously averaged 27 points in the Pelicans’ first two games of the season. The Pelicans now hold a 0-3 record, raising concerns about their early-season performance. You can find more information about the New Orleans Pelicans on the official NBA website.

The Celtics’ decisive victory highlights their potential as a contender in the Eastern Conference, while the Pelicans will need to adjust their strategy in Williamson’s absence. Team officials stated they will continue to monitor Williamson’s injury and provide updates as they become available, according to ESPN.