Celtics Bench Hauser for Game 7 Against 76ers

Key facts

• Sam Hauser will not start Saturday's Game 7 of the Eastern Conference first-round series against the 76ers.
• The Celtics are shaking up their starting five in the decisive matchup.
• Neemias Queta also moves to the bench alongside Hauser.
• Hauser has scored six or fewer points in four of the last five games.
• He shot 34.6 percent from three-point range during that five-game span.
• The game is a do-or-die elimination contest.

A Desperate Shuffle

The Boston Celtics will not start Sam Hauser in Saturday's Game 7 of the Eastern Conference first-round series against the Philadelphia 76ers, according to a team reporter. The move comes as the Celtics face elimination in a win-or-go-home matchup. Hauser and Neemias Queta are both heading to the bench as Boston reshuffles its starting five. The decision reflects the team's urgency to find a winning combination after a rocky stretch.

Hauser's Shooting Slump

Hauser, known for his three-point shooting, has struggled in recent games. He has scored six or fewer points in four of the last five contests, failing to provide the offensive spark the Celtics need. During that span, his three-point percentage dipped to 34.6 percent, well below his season average. The slump has been a factor in Boston's inability to close out the series earlier.

Queta Also Benched

Neemias Queta, who had been part of the starting lineup, will also come off the bench. The Celtics are clearly looking for a different dynamic to counter the 76ers' attack. The changes signal that head coach Joe Mazzulla is willing to make bold adjustments in the most critical game of the season.

Game 7 Stakes

Saturday's Game 7 is the culmination of a tightly contested first-round series. The winner advances to the second round, while the loser faces an offseason of questions. For the Celtics, the stakes are particularly high after a season of high expectations. A first-round exit would be a major disappointment for a team that reached the NBA Finals last year.

What Lies Ahead

The Celtics will need contributions from their bench to overcome the 76ers. Hauser's shooting could still be a weapon if he finds his rhythm as a reserve. Boston's ability to adapt on the fly will be tested. The outcome of this game could shape the team's offseason decisions, including potential roster changes.

The bottom line

• Sam Hauser is benched for Game 7 after a cold shooting streak (34.6% from three in last five games).
• Neemias Queta also moves to the bench as Boston reshuffles its starting lineup.
• The Celtics face elimination in a do-or-die Game 7 against the 76ers.
• Hauser scored six or fewer points in four of the last five games.
• The game will determine which team advances to the second round of the playoffs.
• Boston's coaching staff is making aggressive lineup changes to salvage the series.