In a highly anticipated preseason matchup on October 10, 2026, the Boston Celtics showcased their revamped roster by decisively defeating the Philadelphia 76ers 144-106 at TD Garden. This game marked the debut of veteran forward Paul George in a Celtics uniform, following his offseason acquisition from the 76ers in exchange for Jaylen Brown.
George's performance was a highlight of the evening. Despite initial shooting struggles, he contributed significantly on both ends of the court, finishing with 13 points, five rebounds, four assists, and an impressive five steals over 25 minutes of play. His defensive prowess was particularly notable, with four of his five steals occurring in the first half, setting a tone for the Celtics' aggressive defense. (rotowire.com)
Reflecting on his debut, George acknowledged the unique pressure of playing for a storied franchise like Boston. He admitted to experiencing "extra nerves" due to the team's winning culture and high expectations, emphasizing his commitment to leaving everything on the floor. (heavy.com)
The game also highlighted the emerging synergy between George and Celtics star Jayson Tatum. Tatum led all scorers with 23 points, five rebounds, and four assists. George expressed his readiness to support Tatum's MVP aspirations, stating, "I'm here and want to be here to help him be the best version and help him be in that MVP conversation." (boston.com)
The Celtics' depth was on full display, with reserve guard Payton Pritchard leading the offensive charge off the bench, scoring 25 points on 7-for-12 shooting, including 5-for-8 from three-point range. His performance underscored the team's robust bench strength as they prepare for the regular season. (wisevoter.com)
This commanding preseason victory, coupled with the promising debut of Paul George, has generated optimism among Celtics fans and analysts alike. The team's cohesive performance suggests a strong foundation for the upcoming season, with George's integration into the lineup appearing seamless and effective.