The Boston Celtics are set to host the Sacramento Kings on Friday night, but they may be doing so without one of their biggest stars. Jaylen Brown has landed on the injury report with tightness in his left hamstring and a contusion in his right knee, and he’s currently listed as doubtful for the game. In other words, don’t count on seeing him in uniform at TD Garden.
Also on the injury report is big man Neemias Queta, who’s dealing with an illness. He’s listed as probable, so there’s a strong chance he’ll be available to give the Celtics some minutes off the bench.
Brown’s potential absence comes at a tough time for Boston. He’s been nothing short of elite this season, averaging a career-best 29.4 points per game on an efficient 48.3% shooting clip.
Add in 6.8 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and a steal per contest, and you’ve got a player who’s been doing a little bit of everything for a Celtics team trying to stay near the top of the Eastern Conference. He’s not just putting up numbers-he’s been the engine behind Boston’s offense, especially with Jayson Tatum still sidelined as he recovers from right Achilles surgery.
In Wednesday’s 117-106 loss to the Atlanta Hawks, Brown posted 21 points in what may have been his final appearance before getting some much-needed rest. That game marked the start of a four-game home stand for Boston, which continues with matchups against the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday and the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday. With the schedule tightening and the competition stiffening, the Celtics are walking a fine line between pushing for wins and protecting their stars.
Boston has dropped three of its last six games, including a couple of heartbreakers decided by four points or fewer. That recent stretch has them tied with the New York Knicks for the second-best record in the East at 29-18, with the Toronto Raptors close behind, just a game back.
So while fans were hoping to see Brown suit up and help the Celtics get back on track against the Kings, the signs are pointing to him sitting this one out. The team will have to lean on its depth and defensive identity to hold the line until its stars return.
Injury Report for Friday vs. Kings:
- Jaylen Brown - Doubtful (Left hamstring tightness; Right knee contusion)
- Neemias Queta - Probable (Illness)
- Jayson Tatum - Out (Right Achilles repair)
With Brown likely sidelined and Tatum already out, this could be a night for Boston’s supporting cast to step up and make a statement.