BOSTON — In a bold and unexpected move ahead of a winner-take-all Game 7 against the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday night, the Boston Celtics are rolling out a completely revamped starting lineup that could redefine their playoff run.
Jaylen Brown and Derrick White will remain in their familiar roles, providing continuity and veteran leadership at both ends of the floor. However, the real headlines belong to the three new starters: Baylor Scheierman, Ron Harper Jr., and Luka Garza. They will step in for Jayson Tatum, Sam Hauser, and Neemias Queta as Boston looks to punch their ticket to the next round.
The most notable absence is that of Jayson Tatum, who will miss his first game of these playoffs due to “back-of-knee” tightness. Head coach Joe Mazzulla described the injury as manageable, with Tatum listed as day-to-day after being officially ruled out just two hours before tip-off. While Tatum’s scoring and playmaking will be missed, the Celtics are betting on fresh legs and proven recent chemistry to carry them through.
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Sam Hauser and Neemias Queta will be available off the bench, offering valuable depth and the ability to match up against Philadelphia’s frontcourt and perimeter shooters as the game unfolds.
The decision to elevate Scheierman, Harper Jr., and Garza is not without precedent. This trio played a pivotal role in the Celtics’ final regular-season victory over the Orlando Magic, sparking energy, efficient scoring, and defensive intensity that helped close out the campaign on a high note. Now, with the season on the line in a hostile Game 7 environment, those same players will be asked to deliver again on the biggest stage.
Analysts and fans alike will be watching closely to see how this new-look lineup performs under pressure. The addition of Garza’s size and scoring touch inside, Scheierman’s sharp shooting and versatility on the wing, and Harper Jr.’s athleticism and defensive potential could create matchup problems for a 76ers team that has pushed the Celtics to the brink.