Celtics Gear Up for Final Games Before All-Star Break

BOSTON — The Boston Celtics head into their final game before the All-Star break riding high with a record of 38-16, having won seven of their last eight games. However, they will be faced with challenges, as two starters will be sidelined.

Jaylen Brown has been downgraded to out for the game against the San Antonio Spurs due to swelling in his right knee. This marks the second consecutive game he’ll miss. Newly acquired player Torrey Craig, who has been managing an ankle injury, is expected to make his Celtics debut after not participating in an NBA game since December 30 while with the Chicago Bulls.

The Celtics have seen fluctuating performance at home, currently holding a 16-10 record at TD Garden, and will need to find consistency as they prepare for the upcoming All-Star break. The Spurs come into the matchup with a record of 23-28, presenting an opportunity for Boston to solidify their standing in the Eastern Conference.

Craig’s arrival has been highly anticipated, especially after trading away a key player to bolster their depth. Measuring 6-foot-7, Craig is recognized for his defensive skills, having improved his outside shooting significantly in recent seasons. He has shot 39.7 percent from beyond the arc over the past three seasons.

“The game tells you what to do, they tell you what shots to take,” Craig said recently. “Just have to trust your work and take the available shot.” He also noted his familiarity with some of the key players on the roster, having previously played alongside Jrue Holiday.

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla expressed optimism about Craig’s integration into the team saying, “He’s versatile enough to where it could be seamless from a tactical standpoint… He can fit right in and help us at any time.”

With the All-Star break approaching, the Celtics are striving to gain momentum and maintain their competitive edge. The looming questions around future roster decisions remain, especially with the ownership transition on the horizon. The fate of the current roster may hinge on whether they can trim expenses without sacrificing talent.

As this season progresses, players like Craig could play pivotal roles in the postseason, especially as the team seeks to contend for another title. With crucial decisions ahead, this final stretch could define their efforts going into the second half of the season.