Boston Celtics lost their fifth straight game, falling 100-109 to the Philadelphia 76ers on May 2, 2026, as their Summer League roster struggled to find rhythm. The team’s young core showed flashes but couldn’t close out tight quarters, leaving fans with more questions than answers.
What happened in the Summer League opener?
Boston Celtics’ perimeter defense broke down repeatedly, allowing the 76ers to shoot 41% from three. Tyrese Haliburton’s playmaking opened lanes for drives, while Boston’s big men failed to protect the paint. The Celtics scored 22 points in the fourth quarter — their lowest of the game — and turned the ball over 18 times. No player reached 20 points, and their FG% dipped to 43% after halftime.
Who stood out for Boston Celtics?
Jalen Wilson led the team with 17 points and six rebounds, showing improved footwork around the rim. Jaylen Brown’s replacement, rookie guard Jaylin Williams, added 14 points and four assists but shot just 5-of-18 from the field. Rookie forward Kaleb Johnson blocked three shots and altered several others, hinting at defensive potential. The bench contributed only 28 points total, well below league average for summer squads.
Why does this matter for Boston Celtics?
This loss extends a five-game skid that began in the regular season finale. With no playoff implications, the focus is on development. Coach Joe Mazzulla is using Summer League to test lineups, especially with Kristaps Porziņģis still rehabbing. The team needs to see if their second-round picks can handle NBA pace. Defense remains the biggest concern — they allowed 112.4 points per 100 possessions in their last three games.
What comes next for Boston Celtics?
Boston’s next Summer League game is against the Orlando Magic on July 15. They’ll face the Nets on July 17 and the Raptors on July 19. The roster will rotate heavily, giving minutes to undrafted free agents like guard Malik Johnson and forward Darius Carter. Scouts will watch how the young guards handle pick-and-roll pressure. The goal isn’t wins — it’s identifying who can compete at the next level.