Celtics Visit Trail Blazers in Crucial Matchup for Playoff Prospects

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Portland Trail Blazers are set to host the Boston Celtics at Moda Center on Sunday, March 23, at 6 p.m. ET, in a pivotal game that could impact their playoff aspirations. The Blazers, currently seeking their 33rd win of the season, are aiming for the No. 10 seed in the Western Conference while the Celtics strive for their 52nd victory.

The Blazers are currently two games behind the Dallas Mavericks and Phoenix Suns, who are ahead of them for the final spot in the play-in tournament. With a 20-16 home record this season, Portland is banking on a strong performance to bolster their playoff hopes.

Anfernee Simons, who had previously been questionable due to illness, has been upgraded to available and will participate in his 67th game of the season. Simons is averaging 19.6 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game while shooting 43.1 percent from the field.

“I feel good and ready to contribute,” Simons said after practice on Saturday. “Every game counts now, and we need to keep pushing.”

The Blazers come into this matchup with a record of 5-5 in their last 10 games, averaging 113.1 points per game. In contrast, their opponents, the Celtics, have performed exceptionally well on the road with a 27-7 record.

Boston’s star forward, Jayson Tatum, previously classified as questionable due to a knee issue, is also available to play. Tatum, who recorded 26 points in Friday’s win over the Utah Jazz, is averaging 27.1 points and 8.7 rebounds per game this season.

<p“Being part of a playoff push is exciting,” Tatum said. “We know every game matters, especially facing teams like Portland who are fighting to get in.”

The Trail Blazers lead the league with 13.0 offensive rebounds per game, helped by Deandre Ayton’s 3.1 offensive boards per contest. In their last game, Portland managed to secure 49.3 rebounds, showcasing their tenacity on the boards.

While both teams face injury challenges, the Blazers are without centers Deandre Ayton (calf strain) and Robert Williams III (knee management). Jabari Walker and Donovan Clingan are also listed as questionable.

The Celtics are looking to maintain their momentum following a solid stretch where they have averaged 114.1 points in their last 10 games. Still, they have concerns with injuries, including Jaylen Brown, who will miss the game due to a bone bruise in his right knee.

As both teams take the court on Sunday, the outcome will be crucial for the Blazers in their quest for the playoffs and for the Celtics in pursuit of a higher seed in the Eastern Conference.