Celtics Adjust Starting Lineup as Injuries Mount Ahead of Playoffs

BOSTON, Mass. — With a series of injuries impacting their roster, the Boston Celtics announced that guard Payton Pritchard will start in Sunday’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers. This will mark Pritchard’s first start of the season as the team attempts to navigate a challenging stretch before the playoffs.

Following the injuries to Jrue Holiday (shoulder), Jaylen Brown (knee), and Kristaps Porzingis (illness), Pritchard will join forward Sam Hauser in the starting lineup. This decision comes as the Celtics look to maintain their momentum, currently holding a record of 50 wins against 19 losses for the season.

Pritchard has proven capable off the bench, logging at least 30 minutes in 30 different games this season. He has averaged 18.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 0.9 steals in those outings, making him a reliable option during critical moments.

In their last game, the Celtics extended their dominance over the Brooklyn Nets with a 104-96 victory at TD Garden. Notable performances included Kristaps Porzingis and rookie Baylor Scheierman, who combined for 45 points. This win marks Boston’s 18th victory out of their last 19 encounters with Brooklyn, including postseason matchups.

Despite their success, the Celtics have struggled with injuries throughout the season. Their preferred starting five—comprising Jayson Tatum, Brown, Derrick White, Porzingis, and Holiday—has only played together for slightly over 300 minutes across 20 games. Furthermore, Boston’s complete starting group, including veteran Al Horford, has only shared the court 16 times.

The Celtics’ health woes continue as they face a reduced roster ahead of the playoffs. Following Brown’s recent knee impingement, the team has not had access to its ideal starting configuration since February 23. With only 13 games remaining, including several back-to-back matchups, it’s uncertain how often Boston will showcase its top lineup.

This season’s schedule mirrors that of last year, where the Celtics notably rested players during the final weeks leading into the playoffs. As they approach the postseason, Boston may take a similar approach this year to safeguard player health and performance.

“It’s important for our starting five to get additional run together,” said head coach Joe Mazzulla. “With the injuries we’re facing, we need to maximize our time on the court as we gear up for the playoffs.”

Statistics reveal that while Boston’s core has positive ratings, their performance lacks the consistency seen in previous seasons. The starting unit has recorded a net rating of minus-1.6 with only 307 minutes logged this season. In contrast, Boston’s rotation with Horford stepping in for Porzingis while he recovered from ankle surgery had a much more favorable plus-17.3 rating.

As the regular season winds down, Boston is nearly assured of securing the No. 2 seed in the playoffs, with a 99.9% chance per NBAReference simulations. Although aiming to capitalize on playoff opportunities, injuries pose a significant barrier. With only minimal games left, it remains pivotal for the Celtics to establish rhythm amidst their challenges.

Both individual players and the team have pressing goals in the remaining matches. Jaylen Brown is just a few games shy of becoming available for All-NBA selection, while Pritchard appears to be a favorite for the Sixth Man of the Year award. Meanwhile, younger players such as Baylor Scheierman are eager to make an impression as they seek more playing time.

“We need to embrace whatever minutes we can get now,” Scheierman stated after the Brooklyn game. “Every game is a chance to show what we can do as a team.”

As Boston continues to deal with injuries, the clock is ticking down to the postseason. The Celtics’ ability to adapt and thrive regardless of availability will be put to the test as they strive to find their full potential.