When the Celtics play the Pistons at TD Garden on Monday at 7:30 p.m., they won’t have all of their players. Four of the seven players included on the injury report have already been ruled out. However, there is some good news to report regarding the seven-player roster.
Notably, Kristaps Porzingis’ right hamstring strain is classified as likely. This implies that he ought to return after missing five games. Joe Mazzulla, the coach of the C’s, stated that Porzingis’ injury was not a long-term one, and that is indeed the case. The Celtics, with their lead in the East standings, also had a fantastic opportunity to sit their outstanding big man and ensure his full health.
The two studs of the Celtics, Jayson Tatum (right ankle impingement) and Jaylen Brown (right ankle sprain), are both doubtful. Tatum ended up playing in Sunday’s game in Washington, D.C. Brown opted to rest for the game.
Sam Hauser (left ankle sprain), Jrue Holiday (right shoulder contusion), Al Horford (left big toe strain), and JD Davison (non-COVID sickness) are the four players who have already missed time due to injury. It should come as no surprise that Hauser, who had ten 3-pointers in the Wizards victory, damaged his ankle. Horford misses both of a back-to-back matches due to injury. Lastly, Holiday will probably receive a day off.
It makes sense that the Celtics are resting players during this stretch of their schedule, which consists of five games in seven days. They also take against the Pistons, who have a 12-55 record and are ranked 14th in the East. However, it’s also important to keep in mind that Detroit gave Boston a tough game during the December OT victory. Nevertheless, the Celtics have a great opportunity this week to rest their starters.
