Most points in Celtics debut: How Paul George smashed record in incredible Boston opener

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Most points in Celtics debut: How Paul George smashed record in incredible Boston opener originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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After making major changes in the offseason, parting ways with Jaylen Brown and welcoming in Paul George and Mitchell Robinson, Boston's season opener finally arrived on Tuesday, also the first regular-season game of the 2026-27 NBA season.  

While the Celtics fell to the Pistons, 121-113, there were reasons to be encouraged for Boston fans. George was spectacular, showcasing some of his vintage skills to set franchise history.

Here's how George set a new record for points in a Celtics debut.

MORE: The Sporting News' preseason NBA power rankings

Most points in a Celtics debut

George's 38 points against the Pistons in Tuesday's opener marked the most by a Celtics player in his team debut. 

He surpassed a mark set just a few years ago, when Kristaps Porzingis put up 30 points on his former Knicks squad in his first game wearing green, going on to win the 2023-24 title with the Celtics.

Here's a look at the updated leaderboard:

PlayerDateOpponentFinal ScorePointsPaul GeorgeOct. 20, 2026PistonsPistons 121, Celtics 11338Kristaps PorzingisOct. 25, 2023KnicksCeltics 108, Knicks 10430Dominique WilkinsNov. 4, 1994KnicksKnicks 120, Celtics 10725

RANKING ALL 150 NBA STARTERS: 11-150 | Top 10

Paul George stats vs. Pistons

  • Minutes: 31
  • Points: 38
  • Rebounds: 5
  • Assists: 3
  • Steals: 5
  • Blocks: 0
  • FG: 12-21
  • 3PT: 7-12
  • FT: 7-8

Particularly in the first half, the nine-time All-Star torched Detroit from deep, knocking down six 3-pointers. George, who knocked down 22 3-pointers against the Celtics over seven games in the playoffs last season, proved to be a natural fit next to Tatum in the frontcourt.

In all of last season, George only had two games with at least 33 points. In game No. 1 as a Celtic, he looked like a deadly threat from deep.

During the game, George also moved into eighth-place all-time in 3-pointers made, surpassing Kyle Korver.

Ultimately, a cold shooting night from Tatum and a massive run by Detroit in the second half led to the Celtics' first loss, despite George's strong first impression. 

NBA PROJECTED WIN TOTALS: Eastern Conference | Western Conference

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