The Boston Celtics aren’t racking up wins by accident—they’re just playing smart, calculated basketball. Much like the Los Angeles Lakers, the Celtics know how to make strategic moves, even beyond the hardwood. Despite dealing with a depleted roster, the defending champions marched into Madison Square Garden and edged out the New York Knicks in a 119-117 win, handling the challenge like seasoned pros.
Even though the Knicks welcomed back Jalen Brunson, who looked sharp, the Celtics had enough firepower to respond. Jayson Tatum led with 32 points, 5 assists, and 7 rebounds, while Kristaps Porzingis added 34 points, 3 assists, and 4 boards—showing no mercy against his former team. For Boston, it was just another night, another win. But the question now is: can they deliver again against the Orlando Magic?
Jayson Tatum, Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford are all out tonight
Jaylen Brown is questionable
— Noa Dalzell 🏀 (@NoaDalzell) April 9, 2025
One curious development from that Knicks game was the limited involvement of Jaylen Brown. A player who’s been averaging 22 points across his last 61 games only played 22 minutes and scored just 6 points. That’s far from his usual level and raised some red flags. Was he simply being managed carefully, or was something wrong? Turns out, Brown is dealing with a knee issue, making fans anxious with the playoffs around the corner.
Tonight’s game against the Magic may not feature many familiar faces from the Celtics’ core. Given the intense game in New York and the postseason fast approaching, Boston might decide to rest a large portion of their squad. This could be one of those nights where the deep bench gets the spotlight—a risk, but possibly a wise move in the long term.
So, what does the latest injury report say?
| POSITION | STARTER | 2nd UNIT | 3rd UNIT |
| PG | Derrick White (Out) | Jrue Holiday (Out) | Payton Pritchard |
| SG | Jrue Holiday (Out) | Payton Pritchard | Jaylen Brown (DD) |
| SF | Jaylen Brown (DD) | Sam Hauser | Jayson Tatum (Out) |
| PF | Jayson Tatum (Out) | Al Horford (Out) | Sam Hauser |
| C | Kristaps Porzingis (Out) | Luke Kornet | Neemias Queta |
The Celtics’ injury list tonight reads like a who’s who of the roster. Jayson Tatum is sidelined with a left ankle sprain. Kristaps Porzingis is sitting out for rest after his big game. Jrue Holiday is out due to a shoulder issue. Derrick White is unavailable because of ankle concerns. Al Horford, battling knee soreness, is also not playing. Jaylen Brown is listed as questionable due to knee discomfort. That’s five key players out, with one possibly joining them.
With the stars out, attention shifts to Boston’s depth. It’s a golden opportunity for players like Payton Pritchard, Sam Hauser, Luke Kornet, and Neemias Queta to step up. The question is whether these backups can rise to the occasion or whether the Magic will capitalize on Boston’s weakened state.
Here’s what Boston’s lineup might look like tonight:
Projected Depth Chart vs. Orlando Magic
Even with so many players sidelined, the Celtics’ depth may still surprise. This game will test the resilience and adaptability of Boston’s bench. Fans should expect the unexpected—there’s always a chance for breakout performances in games like this. On the flip side, the Orlando Magic may see this as a golden opportunity to steal a win and make a statement.