It required outscoring the Detroit Pistons 61-42 in the second half, then prevailing in overtime. But the Boston Celtics remained unbeaten at TD Garden this season, improving to 15-0 with a 128-122 win on Thursday.
A day later, the C’s are back in action, playing host to the Toronto Raptors. Five members of the former’s top six are either questionable or already ruled out for the contest.
Jayson Tatum registered 31 points on Thursday, pairing that production with ten assists and five steals, pacing all participants in both categories. He also snagged seven rebounds.
But after spraining his left ankle during Boston’s four-game West Coast trip, the four-time All-Star was questionable for the contest.
When asked after the victory about how his ankle’s doing and the impact playing on Thursday will have on his availability on Friday, Tatum conveyed the following.
“I sprained it, and it’s still a little swollen, but I’m able to play, and any questions will get answered tomorrow. So, we’ll see how I feel in the morning, and we’ll see.”
The Celtics list him as questionable on their injury report for their tilt with Toronto due to left ankle sprain management.
Jaylen Brown, who did not play on Thursday after suffering a lower back contusion in Boston’s 126-115 win in its Christmas clash against the Los Angeles Lakers, is also questionable to play against the Raptors.
Jrue Holiday, who registered 12 points, a team-high nine rebounds, three rebounds, a steal, and a block against the Pistons, has the same status designation due to a right elbow sprain.
Kristaps Porzingis, who led all scorers with 35 points, repeatedly punishing switches, is doubtful because of left calf injury management.
As is tradition, Al Horford (rest) will not play in the second half of the Celtics’ back-to-back.
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This story was originally published December 29, 2023, 10:49 AM.
