The Celtics are set to welcome back some key players for Wednesday’s game against the Detroit Pistons at TD Garden, though two starters remain on the injury report. Jayson Tatum (right patella tendinopathy) and Jrue Holiday (left knee tendinopathy) are both listed as questionable. Tatum played through his injury in Monday’s win over the Heat, while Holiday missed the game.
On a positive note, Boston’s frontcourt will be at full strength, with Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford both cleared from the injury report after sitting out Monday. Additionally, Sam Hauser (personal reasons) is expected to return to the lineup after being a late scratch in Miami.
The Celtics are in the midst of a busy stretch, playing five games in seven nights, which has led to some strategic player rest. Tatum may be given a break, and given Holiday’s heavy workload this season (31.2 minutes per game), the team could opt to be cautious with the 34-year-old veteran during this challenging stretch.
Boston will have the upper hand against a Pistons team coming off an NBA Cup game on Tuesday night. Detroit’s injury report will be released midday Wednesday, but coach JB Bickerstaff recently voiced concerns about back-to-back games following NBA Cup play. The Pistons were soundly defeated by the 76ers after their Cup win against the Pacers on Friday.
The Celtics, who won their season opener against Detroit, will face off against the Pistons at 7:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday at TD Garden.
