The Boston Celtics improved to 50-19 after defeating the Brooklyn Nets 104-96 at TD Garden, becoming one of three teams to clinch a playoff berth, alongside the Cleveland Cavaliers and Oklahoma City Thunder. This marks the fourth straight season the Celtics have won 50+ games, reaffirming their dominance in the Eastern Conference.
However, injuries have plagued the defending champions all season. Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, and Derrick White have only played 20 games together, forcing the team to rely on depth.
This trend continues as the Celtics prepare to face the Utah Jazz on Friday night, with the latest injury report ruling out another starter for the game.
Per the Celtics' official release, star guard Jaylen Brown will be absent against the Jazz as he continues to recover from a right knee posterior impingement.
Brown last played on Saturday against the Nets but left in the third quarter due to back spasms. He was later ruled out of Tuesday's rematch with lingering knee issues and will now miss his second consecutive game.
The news sparked concern among fans:
Injury Report for tomorrow at Utah:
Jaylen Brown (right knee posterior impingement) - OUT
Xavier Tillman (left knee joint sprain) - OUT
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) March 20, 2025
"Jaylen Brown become healthy please," one fan posted.
"Omg he's really hurt ," another wrote.
"Should we be worried about Jaylen?" a concerned fan asked.
Averaging 22.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists on 45.9% shooting, Brown has been crucial to the Celtics' success. While the team has managed to win despite injuries, having key players fully healthy will be vital as they aim to defend their NBA title in June.
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This story was originally published March 21, 2025 at 10:18 AM.