Celtics Adjust Lineup, Start Josh Minott Against Pelicans

NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana — The Boston Celtics made a notable change to their starting lineup on Monday. Josh Minott received his first career start as the Celtics faced the New Orleans Pelicans at 8 p.m.

Alongside Minott, the rest of the starting five included Payton Pritchard, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, and Neemias Queta. This adjustment comes after a surprising move in their previous game on Sunday, showing the team’s willingness to shuffle their lineup early in the season.

Minott’s performance in his last outing against the Detroit Pistons likely contributed to his promotion. He scored 10 points and recorded three steals in just 14 minutes of play. The team’s wing rotation, however, has been unpredictable this season. While Brown and Sam Hauser have consistently played, other wings have seen varying minutes.

In Game 1 against the Philadelphia 76ers, Minott was the first wing off the bench, while Hauser started. In that match, teammates Gonzalez, Baylor Scheierman, and Jordan Walsh did not play. Game 2 against the New York Knicks saw Gonzalez emerge as the standout player, while Minott was sidelined entirely.

Game 3 against the Pistons saw Gonzalez starting again with Minott returning to a bench role. Scheierman played a few minutes, while Walsh, who has struggled for playing time, did not see the court. The Celtics’ wing rotation remains surprising and is evolving as the season progresses.

With a height of 6-foot-8, Minott’s ability to rebound could prove crucial for the Celtics, who have struggled in that area. His presence on the court might help improve their performance in this foundational matchup against the Pelicans.