The Boston Celtics will host The New York Knicks at the TD Garden tonight for their fifth and final clash of the season. So far, the results have leaned in favor of the former 4-0; with the most recent one recording 116-102. Unlike the last matchup, however, both teams stand secured with a spot in the playoffs. Regardless, as the two battle to set a pace, the Knicks might find a window to pull a stop on the streak.

Hours ahead of the season series final between the two teams, columnist Stefan Bondy took to X to share an update on the Celtics injury report. “It’s nap time of the Celtics,” he wrote, considering the Eastern Conference top-seeded team has 6 of their players listed.

The biggest concern for Celtics fans lies with the status of their All-Star duo, Jayson Tatum and Jrue Holiday. Jayson Tatum has been listed as questionable due to a right knee contusion, suffered during the matchup against the Sacramento Kings. The small forward has driven the Celtics’ offense throughout the season, averaging 27 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. Alongside him, Jrue Holiday also finds himself categorized as questionable due to a shoulder injury, after averaging 12.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.9 assists in 68 games. Even if he plays tonight, the guard might expect limitations.

The Celtics’ injury woes don’t end here. Jaylen Brown further joins the list because of a left-hand sprain. Kristaps Porziņģis is questionable because of a hamstring injury while Al Horford, a key veteran presence, is also questionable with a toe sprain. Both of them have played well on the defensive end throughout the season. Xavier Tillman Sr., who has been a valuable asset coming off the bench for the Celtics, is another making the list with right knee tendon irritation.

Predicted Lineups: Celtics vs Knicks

The Boston Celtics are currently the top-seeded team in the Eastern Conference, having secured victory in 7 games out of their last 10. The Celtics have scored points at an average of 120.4 points per game this season, which is 2nd overall in the league. Whereas they have conceded points at an average of 109.1 points per game which is 5th overall in the league. The Celtics have completely dominated this season on both the offensive and defensive end. While the key players are listed as questionable, it is expected that they might get some minutes. This is how the Celtics could line up: Jayson Tatum, Derrick White, Al Horford, Payton Pritchard, and Jaylen Brown.

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The New York Knicks are currently holding onto the 3rd seed in the Eastern Conference. On a 2 game winning streak, the team has come out victorious in 6 out of their last 10 games. The Knicks have been average on the offensive end, averaging only 112.7 points per game, which is 19th overall in the league. But they have been exceptional on the defensive end, conceding only 108.1 points per game, which is 2nd best overall in the league. Missing the services of Julius Randle, this is how they could line up: Josh Hart, Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, Donte DiVincenzo, and Mitchell Robinson.

Coach Mazzulla will have trouble selecting the lineup. The health status of his players will play an important role in deciding playing time, rotations, and even the overall game strategy. But tonight’s matchup will be intriguing. The Celtics’ high-powered offense will face a tough challenge from the Knicks’ stingy defense.

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