Celtics Dealing With Some Injuries
Several important Boston Celtics players are battling injuries at less-than-ideal times before the start of the NBA playoffs. Jaylen Brown, who cut his hand while attempting to pick up a broken glass vase that he had knocked over while watering plants. And Marcus Smart who has missed the previous three games due to a neck problem.
But will they linger into the playoffs for the C’s?
Brown + Smart Injury Updates
During a Tuesday press conference, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla provided some generally encouraging updates on Brown and Smart.
Mazzulla said of Brown’s injury: “It’s getting better.” “He wasn’t able to practice on Tuesday, but he was out there for everything. Still, no restrictions heading into Game 1.”
The Celtics expect Brown to resume full practice on Thursday or Friday, so it appears that the C’s avoided a major setback and will have their star guard back and fully prepared for Game 1 on Saturday against the Atlanta Hawks.
As for Marcus Smart, he is already working out, and Mazzulla said his neck issue are now in the past for last year’s defensive player of the year.
“He’s good. He’s ramped up,” “He was great today in practice, lively. He said he felt good. So, he’ll be ready to go.” Mazzulla said on Smart.
Celtics Will Play Hawks In Round 1
In their play-in game against the Miami Heat on Tuesday night, the Hawks prevailed 116-105, securing their matchup with the Celtics in the opening round of the 2023 NBA Playoffs. Not to sound cocky, but the C’s should probably be able to beat the Hawks and advance to the second round, whether Brown or Smart are starting or not.
When Is Game 1/Where Can I Watch
Game 1 is on Saturday (4/15) at 3:30 PM ET. You can watch it on ESPN.
What’s The Full Schedule For Hawks/Celtics?
Game 1: Atlanta at Boston, Saturday, April 15, 3:30 p.m. on ESPN.
Game 2: Atlanta at Boston, Tuesday, April 18, 7 p.m. on NBA TV
Game 3: Boston at Atlanta, Friday, April 21, 7 p.m. on ESPN
Game 4: Boston at Atlanta, Sunday, April 23, 7 p.m. on TNT
Game 5: Atlanta at Boston, Tuesday, April 25, TBD if necessary
Game 6: Boston at Atlanta, Thursday, April 27, TBD if necessary
Game 7: Atlanta at Boston, Thursday, April 27, TBD if necessary
