Celtics preseason – Boston’s depth players secured a preseason win over Cleveland behind strong performances from Devin Carter, Luka Garza, and Baylor Scheierman.
The Celtics’ most familiar stars stayed on the bench Thursday night, but the team’s identity remained unchanged. In a 124-point display against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Boston’s second unit proved that the franchise’s culture of relentless effort persists. even without Jayson Tatum. Derrick White. Payton Pritchard. Neemias Queta. or Sam Hauser in the lineup.
While newcomers Paul George and Mitchell Robinson missed the opener. the night belonged to the fringe-rotation players fighting for permanent spots. Devin Carter. a 24-year-old on an Exhibit 10 deal. led the charge with 17 points. five rebounds. three assists. and two steals in just 24 minutes. His performance—highlighted by a transition dunk and difficult finishes through contact—suggests he may be outgrowing his potential role with the Maine Celtics.
Boston’s dominance on the glass served as the engine for the win. with the team tallying 21 offensive rebounds and 27 second-chance points. Luka Garza paced the scoring with 22 points and 10 rebounds, while Baylor Scheierman added 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists. Scheierman provided a flash of the team’s chaotic energy in the first half when. despite losing a shoe. he launched himself into a wrestling match for an offensive rebound before delivering a pass for a layup.
Beyond the stat sheet. 19-year-old Chris Cenac showcased a high ceiling. displaying rim-protection skills that echoed the impact of former Celtic Robert Williams. His ability to maneuver at 6-foot-11, crossing over defenders and finishing dunks, offered a glimpse of a unique offensive versatility. Dillon Mitchell also left a mark with his verticality, notably clearing Evan Mobley in a highlight-reel jump.
This roster composition reveals the current hierarchy in Boston: while the high-profile acquisitions are slated for the home opener at TD Garden this Saturday against the Philadelphia 76ers. the depth of this squad is already forcing difficult personnel decisions. The front office must now weigh whether to keep players like Carter on limited two-way contracts or pursue guaranteed deals.
For now. the only injury update involves Ron Harper Jr. who missed the game with a shoulder knock. described as not worrisome. The Cavaliers. meanwhile. struggled to match the motivation of a Boston squad playing as if their careers depended on every possession. The Celtics return home Saturday at 8 p.m. where expectations remain that fans will finally see the full-strength rotation in action.
Boston Celtics NBA preseason Devin Carter Chris Cenac Luka Garza Cavaliers Celtics news