Celtics Manage Injuries as They Open Back-to-Back Against Raptors
The Boston Celtics kicked off their back-to-back set on Tuesday night with a matchup against the Toronto Raptors, but they did so with a shorthanded roster. As they prepare for a quick turnaround against the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday, injuries and rest management remain key factors in their lineup decisions.
One of the biggest absences for the Celtics was veteran big man Al Horford, who was ruled out due to a left big toe sprain. It marked his first missed game since the team returned from the All-Star break. Horford, a key piece in Boston’s frontcourt rotation, has been a steady contributor all season, averaging eight points, five rebounds, and two assists while shooting 41% from the field and 36% from beyond the arc.
Horford wasn’t the only Celtic sidelined on Tuesday. Luke Kornet also missed the contest due to personal reasons, while Jrue Holiday was given a rest day. Meanwhile, Xavier Tillman, Neemias Queta, and JD Davison were listed on the injury report but were ultimately cleared to play.
With Horford dealing with a toe issue, his status for Wednesday’s game against the Pistons remains uncertain. If he sits out again, it would mark his first time missing consecutive games since late January. Since then, the 37-year-old has appeared in nine contests, starting in four and logging an average of 25 minutes per game.
Boston will wrap up their back-to-back set against the Pistons on Wednesday, with tipoff scheduled for 7 PM ET.
