The Boston Celtics avoided a losing streak by beating the Miami Heat 103-91 Friday night at the Kaseya Center. The Celtics were led by six-time All-Star Jayson Tatum who added 28 points, five assists, and four rebounds with five three-pointers made.
Boston was without reigning Finals MVP Jaylen Brown due to a right knee posterior impingement as well as former No. 4 pick in the draft from Latvia Kristaps Porzingis who has missed the last eight games due to a non-COVID illness. While the reigning champions continue to battle injuries, their near future doesn't appear to be optimistic based on players' injury statuses.
Boston Celtics forwards Jayson Tatum (0) and Jaylen Brown (7) Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports
Ahead of Boston's matchup with the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday, the team announced the injury report included several key players.
Per the team, Boston has announced Derrick White (left knee contusion) and Al Horford (left big toe sprain) are officially listed as doubtful for Saturday's matchup in Brooklyn. The doubtful listing means both players are expected to miss the game, which is unfortunate news for Boston.
These two are joined by Brown (right knee posterior impingement) and Tatum (right knee tendinopathy) who are both listed as questionable.
The Celtics have battled injuries constantly throughout this season, as their starting five of Brown, Tatum, Porzingis, White, and Jrue Holiday have played just 20 of the 67 games this season (via NBA).
Although the reigning champions have had to face adversity, they still sit in second place in the Eastern Conference with a five-game lead over the New York Knicks. With 15 games remaining in the regular season, Boston's priority will be to get their lineup healthy heading into the postseason with the second seed likely being theirs.
Related: Celtics Make Major Kristaps Porzingis Announcement Before Nets Game
Related: Nets Make Unfortunate Season-Ending Announcement Before Celtics Game
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This story was originally published March 15, 2025 at 3:39 PM.