When two NBA teams like the Boston Celtics and the New Orleans Pelicans meet on the hardwood, fans and analysts alike want more than just the final score — they want to know which players stood out statistically, how each team performed on both ends of the court, and what those numbers tell us about the matchup overall. In this article, we’ll break down notable Celtics vs Pelicans player stats from recent matchups, explore standout performances, and explain what these figures mean in the larger context of the teams’ seasons.
A Storied Yet Uneven Rivalry
The Celtics and Pelicans don’t face each other as often as some divisional foes, but when they do, the games are intriguing thanks to the contrasting strengths of each team. Boston, historically one of the NBA’s elite franchises, often enters the matchup with deeper talent and championship aspirations, while New Orleans has had periods of rebuilding and rising young talent.
Looking at recent statistical history gives us a clearer picture of how these games have played out.
Recent Head-to-Head Stats
One of the most recent clashes occurred on October 27, 2025, where the Celtics dominated the Pelicans 122–90. In that game:
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Anfernee Simons: Led Boston with 25 points, including six three-pointers.
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Payton Pritchard: Contributed 18 points, providing valuable scoring depth.
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Luka Garza: Added 16 points.
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Jaylen Brown & Josh Minott: Each scored 15 points, giving balanced contributions from the Celtics’ wings.
On the Pelicans’ side:
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Jordan Poole: Top-scored with 22 points.
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Derik Queen: The rookie added 12 points.
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New Orleans was without Zion Williamson due to injury, which significantly impacted their scoring options.
This lopsided result showcased Boston’s offensive firepower and the Pelicans’ struggles when key pieces are missing.
Classic Close Contest: January 31, 2025
Another noteworthy matchup took place on January 31, 2025, and it was nothing like the blowout in New Orleans. This time, the game was a tight battle ending 118–116 in favor of the Celtics.
Key Celtics performers:
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Jayson Tatum: Finished with 27 points, added 10 assists — a near triple-threat showing.
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Jaylen Brown: Scored 28 points with six rebounds and four assists.
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Kristaps Porziņģis: Contributed 16 points and five rebounds. reddit.com
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Derrick White: Added 16 points, showcasing his ability to score efficiently.
Pelicans standouts:
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Trey Murphy III: An offensive force, dropping a game-high 40 points with eight three-pointers — an impressive shooting night.
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Jose Alvarado: Contributed 20 points and six assists.
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CJ McCollum: Posted 17 points.
This game illustrated how both teams can compete at a high level, with the Pelicans’ sharpshooting balanced by Boston’s multifaceted scoring threats.
Broader Statistical Trends
Beyond individual games, per-game season averages also give insight into how these teams stack up:
Celtics Key Statistical Leaders
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Jayson Tatum: Roughly 26–28 points per game, around 5–6 assists, and close to 9 rebounds — showcasing his role as the team’s top scorer and facilitator. RealGM Basketball+1
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Jaylen Brown: Around 23–24 points per game with solid rebounding and assist numbers.
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Derrick White: Double-digit scorer with notable assists and rebounds.
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Payton Pritchard and Jrue Holiday: Both offer valuable scoring and playmaking punch.
Pelicans Key Statistical Leaders
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CJ McCollum: Roughly 22 points per game, a steady scoring option.
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Dejounte Murray: Contributing around 17–18 points, 7–8 assists, showing his value as a do-it-all guard.
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Trey Murphy III: Shooting threat with 22+ points per game, great three-point efficiency.
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Yves Missi: Strong rebounding numbers.
These per-game stats highlight how Boston’s stars drive their offense, whereas New Orleans relies on a group of versatile scorers and playmakers.
Defensive and Rebounding Comparisons
Looking beyond scoring, some series stats underline how differently the two teams play:
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In the March 30, 2024 matchup, Boston outscored New Orleans 104–92 while collecting 58 rebounds to the Pelicans’ 45 and posting a better assist-to-turnover ratio. CBS Sports
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Defense was key, as the Celtics recorded seven blocks to New Orleans’ three and limited easy baskets.
Boston’s ability to rebound and defend often gives them the edge in these meetings, particularly when they control the paint and limit second-chance points.
What These Stats Mean
When we look at Celtics vs Pelicans match player stats, a few clear themes emerge:
⭐ Boston’s Balanced Attack
The Celtics typically enjoy a well-rounded offensive unit where multiple players — Tatum, Brown, White, Pritchard, and others — can score in double figures. Their depth allows them to adapt if one star is having an off night.
🔥 Pelicans’ Shooting Power
New Orleans thrives when its shooters — especially Murphy III and McCollum — are accurate from deep and their guards like Murray are facilitating. When their perimeter game clicks, they can keep pace with elite offenses.
📊 Close vs Blowout Games
The numbers show that matches can swing either way: from dominant wins like the 122–90 blast in October 2025 to tight, edge-of-your-seat affairs like the 118–116 battle in January 2025. This contrast highlights how in any given night, statistical performances from a few players can tip the outcome.
In Conclusion
Celtics vs Pelicans player stats tell a story of competition between two teams with very different strengths — Boston’s deep, balanced attack versus New Orleans’ lethal shooting and dynamic guards. Studying past games shows how individual stars shine, how bench contributions matter, and how tactical matchups ultimately determine the result.
Whether you’re a stat enthusiast, a fantasy basketball manager, or a fan preparing for the next Celtics vs Pelicans showdown, understanding these player metrics gives you a clearer picture of the matchup dynamics.
If you want head-to-head comparisons, player projections, or further analysis of upcoming Celtics–Pelicans games, just let me know! 📊🏀