Celtics vs. Heat: Who’s In, Who’s Out, and What to Watch for Tonight
As the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat get set to tip off tonight at 7:30 PM EST, both teams are dealing with significant absences that could shape how this one plays out. Let’s break down the key injuries, projected starting lineups, and what fans should keep an eye on heading into this Eastern Conference matchup.
Injury Report: Key Names Missing on Both Sides
Boston Celtics:
The Celtics will be without their superstar forward Jayson Tatum, who’s sidelined with an Achilles issue. That’s a major blow to Boston’s offensive rhythm and late-game shot creation. Also out is Josh Minott, who continues to recover from an ankle injury.
Miami Heat:
Miami’s injury list is a little longer, with Davion Mitchell (shoulder) and Jaime Jaquez Jr. (knee) both ruled out. Mitchell’s absence affects their backcourt depth, while Jaquez Jr. had been carving out a solid role on the wing before the injury.
However, there’s some good news for the Heat: Tyler Herro is available despite dealing with toe and rib issues. His scoring punch will be crucial, especially with Terry Rozier (not with the team) unavailable. Nikola Jovic is also cleared to play after a knee concern.
On the developmental front, Myron Gardner, Vlad Goldin, and Jahmir Young remain out while with the G League squad.
Projected Starting Lineups
Boston Celtics:
- G: Payton Pritchard
- G: Derrick White
- F: Jaylen Brown
- F: Sam Hauser
- C: Neemias Queta
Without Tatum, expect Jaylen Brown to shoulder a heavy offensive load. Derrick White will be key in facilitating the offense and providing perimeter defense, while Neemias Queta gets the nod at center, offering size and rim protection in the paint.
Miami Heat:
- G: Tyler Herro
- G/F: Norman Powell
- G/F: Pelle Larsson
- F: Andrew Wiggins
- C: Bam Adebayo
This is a versatile lineup from the Heat, with Herro leading the scoring charge and Bam Adebayo anchoring the defense. Norman Powell and Andrew Wiggins bring veteran savvy and two-way ability, while Pelle Larsson continues to gain valuable minutes on the wing.
What to Watch
With Tatum out, Boston’s offense becomes more egalitarian - which can be both a challenge and an opportunity. Sam Hauser and Payton Pritchard will need to hit shots early to stretch the floor and keep Miami’s defense honest. Jaylen Brown has the green light, but how efficiently he operates as the primary option will be a storyline to follow.
For Miami, the focus is on how Tyler Herro looks physically. If he’s close to 100%, his shot creation could be the difference-maker. Bam Adebayo will likely look to exploit Boston’s thinner frontcourt, especially with Kristaps Porzingis not listed and Queta starting at center.
Broadcast Info
- Tipoff: 7:30 PM EST
- TV: FanDuel Sports Network Sun (Eric Reid & John Crotty)
- Spanish Radio: WAQI 710 AM & The HEAT Spanish Radio Network (José Pañeda)
With both teams missing key pieces, this one could come down to role players stepping up and which star - Brown or Herro - can take control late. It’s not the full-strength showdown fans might have hoped for, but there’s plenty of intrigue heading into tonight’s matchup.