Game Time and Broadcast Info
The Celtics are back in Boston, ready to tip-off at 7:30 p.m. You can catch all the action on 98.5 The Sports Hub.
Injury Report
For the Celtics, Max Shulga is out on a G League assignment, while Jayson Tatum is sidelined following a right Achilles repair. Amari Williams is doubtful, also due to G League commitments. The Nets have yet to release their injury report.
What to Watch For
The Celtics are returning home after a solid 3-1 performance on their West Coast road trip post-All-Star break. They’re facing a Brooklyn Nets team known for their physicality and strong one-on-one defense, particularly under the strategic guidance of Jordi Fernandez.
Season Series Recap
Boston and Brooklyn have faced off three times this season. The Celtics claimed a comeback victory in Brooklyn, only to have the Nets even the score at TD Garden. Their last encounter was a double-overtime thriller, with Boston edging out the win thanks to a clutch three-pointer from Hugo Gonzalez and a critical block by Amari Williams.
Celtics' Recent Performance
Boston is eager to bounce back after a tough 19-point loss to the Denver Nuggets. Despite starting strong offensively, the Celtics struggled with shot-making, especially during a decisive third-quarter run by Denver.
Standings Check-In
The Celtics hold the second spot in the Eastern Conference, trailing the Detroit Pistons by 5.5 games. They maintain a 1.5-game lead over the New York Knicks and are two games ahead of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Nets' Situation
The Nets are near the bottom of the Eastern Conference, positioning themselves for a potential high draft pick, eyeing prospects like Darryn Peterson, Cam Boozer, or AJ Dybantsa. They’re focusing on player development, despite a tough 2-8 record in their last 10 games and a six-game losing streak.
Player Highlights
Michael Porter Jr. continues to lead Brooklyn in scoring but has hit a rough patch in efficiency, averaging 19.8 points while shooting 40.6% from the field and 20.3% from beyond the arc over his last eight games. Rookie Nolan Traore is making his mark with averages of 13.3 points and 5.8 assists, while fellow rookie Danny Wolf contributes 10.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists.
Key Play Insight
A recent play showcased Jaylen Brown setting a screen for Derrick White, leading to a hand-off and a roll to the rim by Neemias Queta. This forced Christian Braun to help off Scheierman, who smartly spaced himself a few feet behind the three-point line, making Braun’s closeout tougher. Scheierman capitalized by hitting the deep three, highlighting the Celtics’ strategic spacing and ball movement.