Celtics Host Trail Blazers Amid Injury Concerns on March 5

BOSTON, Massachusetts — The Boston Celtics are set to face the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday, March 5, in their first matchup of the 2024-2025 NBA season. The Celtics currently sit in second place in the Eastern Conference with a record of 43-18, while the Blazers are 28-34, looking to improve their position for the NBA Play-In Tournament.

The game will tip off at 7 p.m. ET at TD Garden. With Boston aiming to extend their winning streak and maintain momentum, Portland seeks to capitalize on the Celtics’ injury-plagued roster, which may be missing several key players.

This matchup carries added significance for the Celtics, who are fresh off a recent victory against the Denver Nuggets. Despite their success, they face uncertainty as star players Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are listed as questionable due to injuries. Additionally, Kristaps Porzingis is doubtful with an illness, potentially leaving the Celtics without their top scoring options.

“Injuries are going to affect our game plan, but we have depth in our roster,” said Boston head coach. “We’ll adjust accordingly and aim to play our game, no matter who’s on the floor.”

On the other hand, the Trail Blazers have shown resilience lately, boasting a 4-1 record during their current seven-game road trip. Led by Anfernee Simons, who scored 34 points in their recent win over the Philadelphia 76ers, Portland has outperformed expectations and is covering the spread favorably.

“We’re in a good rhythm right now,” said Simons. “Every game matters for us as we push toward the playoffs, and we believe we can compete with anyone.”

In terms of betting odds, the Celtics are favored by 9.5 points, with the over/under set at 225. The Blazers have been strong against the spread this season, achieving an impressive 16-3 record against Eastern Conference teams, making them a competitive matchup for the Celtics.

With multiple players uncertain for Boston, including role players like Jrue Holiday, the challenge for the Celtics becomes even steeper. They have had notable recent victories but will need every asset at their disposal to navigate this game against the feisty Blazers.

The trajectory of both teams paints a narrative of contrasting fortunes; the Celtics eye a repeat championship while the Blazers are in the throes of a rebuilding phase but are finding the grit to remain competitive in critical matchups.

As the teams prepare to face off, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Portland can pull off an upset or if Boston’s depth and home-court advantage will prevail despite current injury woes.