Celtics Prepare for Lackluster Lineup Against Trail Blazers Tonight

BOSTON — The Boston Celtics are set to face off against the Portland Trail Blazers tonight at TD Garden, but they will do so missing several key players. Jayson Tatum (shoulder impingement), Kristaps Porzingis (non-COVID illness), and Jrue Holiday (mallet finger) have all been ruled out for the matchup.

Derrick White, who has been dealing with a low back contusion, has been upgraded from probable and is expected to make an impact on the game. With Tatum and Holiday sidelined, White will see increased playmaking responsibilities. He averaged 18.0 points over the last six games, alongside 4.8 rebounds and 4.0 assists.

This will mark Tatum’s fourth missed game of the season. The Celtics have managed to go 2-1 in his absence, but his offensive output will be missed against a competitive Trail Blazers team. Porzingis continues to miss time as he recovers from illness, making this his third consecutive game on the sidelines.

Holiday’s absence is particularly felt given his defensive prowess. “We know he’s going to do whatever he needs to do to get back as quick as possible,” White stated. “Guys are going to have to step up and try to make those plays.” Holiday himself voiced frustration, saying, “I’m going to be in the splint for a while… I have to keep it straight for as long as possible.”

In recent performances, White put up 17 points in a game against the Denver Nuggets, indicating he’s prepared to step up in the void left by suspended starters. With his shooting percentages at 44.7% overall and 39.2% from three-point range, White’s consistency is key for the Celtics.

Despite these injuries, the Celtics boast a 43-18 record, making them top contenders in the Eastern Conference. Tonight’s game will mark the beginning of a back-to-back stretch for the Celtics, as they prepare to face the Philadelphia 76ers tomorrow.

Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers will also be without two prominent players: Jerami Grant and Robert Williams, setting the stage for an evenly matched contest. The game is scheduled to tip off at 7 p.m. in Boston.