Game Night Preview: Celtics vs. Grizzlies
Game Time: 8:00 p.m.
Radio: 98.5 The Sports Hub
Celtics Injury Report:
- Maz Shulga - Available (G League, on assignment)
- John Tonje - Out (G League, two-way)
- Nikola Vucevic - Out (right ring finger fracture)
- Amari Williams - Available (G League, on assignment)
Grizzlies Injury Report:
- Santi Aldama - Out (right knee surgery recovery)
- Kentavious Caldwell-Pope - Out (right fifth finger surgery recovery)
- Cedric Coward - Out (personal reasons)
- Brandon Clarke - Out (right calf strain)
- Zach Edey - Out (left ankle surgery recovery)
- Taj Gibson - Out (right foot soreness)
- GG Jackson - Out (left knee soreness)
- Jahmai Mashack - Out (left ankle sprain)
- Ja Morant - Out (left elbow UCL sprain)
- Scotty Pippen Jr. - Out (right great toe surgery recovery)
- Rayan Rupert - Out (G League, two-way)
What to Watch For:
The Boston Celtics are riding high on a three-game home win streak and are now heading to Tennessee for a clash against the Memphis Grizzlies. The Celtics have momentum, but can they maintain it on the road?
Tale of the Tape:
These two teams have only squared off once this season, back in November. Jaren Jackson Jr. was the standout for Memphis with 18 points, but it wasn’t enough to stop the Celtics. Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard combined for a whopping 63 points, leading Boston to a commanding 131-95 victory.
Last Game Recap:
The Celtics are coming off a big win against the Golden State Warriors. Jaylen Brown was on fire, dropping 32 points, grabbing six boards, and dishing out five assists. Jayson Tatum also contributed significantly with 24 points and 10 rebounds.
Standings Check-In:
Boston is chasing the top spot in the East, currently four games behind the Detroit Pistons. With Cade Cunningham sidelined, the Celtics might just close that gap. They’re also holding a 1.5-game lead over the New York Knicks, who sit in third.
Grizzlies Check-In:
Memphis has been battered by injuries this season, and their current roster reflects that. Since trading Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz, they've been in a rebuilding phase.
However, Ty Jerome has been a bright spot, averaging 21 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 5.8 assists over his last five games. He's been shooting lights out, hitting 45.1% from the field and 44.4% from three-point range.
Jaylen Wells has also been impressive, averaging 16.3 points over his last nine games with a shooting percentage of 51.5% from the floor and 43.9% from beyond the arc. Olivier Maxence-Prosper, rookie Javon Small, and Rayan Rupert have all been making their mark from deep as well.
Defensive Prowess:
Keep an eye on the Celtics’ defense, especially how they handle spacing issues. Neemias Queta’s ability to drop back and trap opponents, like De’Anthony Melton, showcases their defensive acumen. Jaylen Brown’s hustle and Derrick White’s quick reactions often lead to crucial turnovers and fast breaks.
As the Celtics take on the Grizzlies, their road performance will be crucial. With Memphis dealing with a slew of injuries, Boston has a prime opportunity to extend their win streak.