Celtics Face Pelicans in Crucial Road Game Amid Tight Playoff Race

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Boston Celtics will face the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night in a pivotal road game as they aim to maintain their hold on the second seed in the Eastern Conference. With the New York Knicks just one game behind, the Celtics are under pressure to secure every win in the tightening playoff race.

The Celtics enter the matchup with a relatively healthy roster, featuring all five starters—Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, and Kristaps Porzingis—expected to play. This depth gives Boston a significant advantage over the injury-plagued Pelicans, who have struggled to field a consistent lineup all season.

Boston has battled inconsistency throughout the year, but their full-strength lineup positions them well to capitalize on New Orleans’ struggles. “Every win counts at this point,” said Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla. “We know the importance of staying sharp, especially against a team fighting through adversity.”

Meanwhile, the Pelicans, sitting near the bottom of the Western Conference with a 12-36 record, have been devastated by injuries. Star forward Zion Williamson has missed significant time, leaving a void in the team’s offense. Brandon Ingram and Dejounte Murray have also been sidelined, further depleting the roster. Murray, who averages 17.9 points and 7.6 assists per game, has been upgraded to probable after dealing with a right elbow and index finger injury. His return could provide a much-needed boost for New Orleans.

“Dejounte’s presence on the court changes the dynamic for us,” said Pelicans head coach Willie Green. “He brings energy and leadership that we’ve been missing.” However, it remains unclear whether Murray and Williamson will be enough to challenge the Celtics’ depth and firepower.

Adding to New Orleans’ challenges, key players like Herbert Jones and Jordan Hawkins are also dealing with injuries. The Celtics, on the other hand, are focused on avoiding the lapses in focus that have cost them games earlier in the season. “We can’t afford to take any game lightly,” said Jayson Tatum. “We know what’s at stake, and we’re treating every game like a must-win.”

With the playoff race heating up, the Celtics are determined to keep the pressure on the teams above them in the standings. A win in New Orleans would not only solidify their position but also send a message to the rest of the league as the postseason approaches.