In a commanding performance, the Boston Celtics defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 144-118 and clinched the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. The Celtics matched the NBA record for most three-pointers in a game, hitting 29 shots from beyond the arc. Sam Hauser led the scoring with 24 points, including eight three-pointers, while Jaylen Brown contributed 23 points in just 29 minutes of play. Payton Pritchard added a double-double with 21 points and 10 assists. The Celtics showcased their shooting prowess, with eight players making at least two three-pointers. They built a significant lead early, leading by as many as 41 points against a Pelicans team missing several key players. Notably, Jayson Tatum was rested, having not played back-to-back games since returning from Achilles tendon surgery.