Celtics Look to Keep Momentum Rolling Against Hawks at TD Garden
The Boston Celtics are back on their home floor Wednesday night, eyeing another convincing win over the Atlanta Hawks - and if their last meeting is any indication, they’re in a good spot to get it done.
Back on January 17, the Celtics put on an absolute clinic in Atlanta, cruising to a 132-106 win behind a flamethrower performance from Sam Hauser. The forward caught fire from deep, knocking down 10 three-pointers in what was easily one of the most electric shooting displays of the season. That game marked the first time Boston and Atlanta squared off this year, and the Celtics made a statement.
Now, the scene shifts to TD Garden, where Boston will try to replicate that dominance in front of their home crowd. They'll be a bit shorthanded, though - big man Neemias Queta has been ruled out due to illness. While Queta has been carving out a role with his physical presence and energy off the bench, the Celtics will need to adjust their frontcourt rotation in his absence.
On the Hawks' side, they come into this one riding a three-game winning streak, playing some of their best basketball in weeks. Atlanta’s offense has found a rhythm, and they’ll be looking to carry that momentum into Boston and flip the script after getting blown out in their last meeting.
One notable absence for Atlanta: Kristaps Porzingis. The former Celtic is still sidelined with an Achilles injury and won’t be in the building for a potential return moment. Any tribute video or reunion with the Boston faithful will have to wait for another day.
Coverage tips off at 6:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Boston with Celtics Pregame Live, setting the stage for what should be an entertaining Eastern Conference battle. If Hauser’s hot hand shows up again - and the Celtics continue to defend their home floor the way they have all season - Boston could be in line for another strong showing.