The Boston Celtics and Atlanta Hawks enter Saturday’s game at State Farm Arena with multiple players sidelined, raising questions about rotations and bench impact.
Boston will be without Jayson Tatum (right Achilles) and Josh Minott (left ankle), while Payton Pritchard is listed as doubtful with left ankle soreness.
Atlanta also has major injuries, including N’Faly Dante (right ACL), Kristaps Porzingis (left Achilles), and Zaccharie Risacher (left knee). Dyson Daniels is questionable with a right ankle sprain, and several two-way players including Ravi Dennis and Caleb Houstan are listed as questionable or on assignment.
The Celtics (25-15) have won one of their last two games, defeating Miami 119-114 on January 15 but falling 98-96 at Indiana on January 12. Boston ranks second in the league in both offensive and defensive efficiency, but the team plays at the slowest pace in the NBA (95.5).
Atlanta (20-23) is struggling with a two-game losing streak after a 117-101 loss at Portland and a 141-116 defeat at the Lakers. The Hawks rank eighth in scoring (117.9 PPG) but are 25th in points allowed (118.9), relying on a fast-paced style that contrasts with Boston’s methodical approach.
Boston’s top contributors this season include Jaylen Brown, averaging 29.4 points and 6.5 rebounds, and Derrick White with 18.4 points and 5.2 assists per game. Payton Pritchard and Anfernee Simons add scoring and playmaking depth when healthy.
Atlanta’s key performers are Jalen Johnson, who averages 23.1 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 8.1 assists, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker with 20.5 points per game. Onyeka Okongwu provides interior scoring and rebounding, while Dyson Daniels’ role will depend on his ankle status.
This game marks the first meeting between the two teams this season.
Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM ET.
