Highly Anticipated Celtics vs. Cavaliers Matchup Features Injury Updates
In a marquee mid-November showdown, the defending champion Boston Celtics will face the undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday at 7 p.m. at TD Garden. Both teams are set for a thrilling battle, with the Celtics nearing full strength according to their latest injury report.
Payton Pritchard is listed as questionable due to a left thumb sprain. Kristaps Porzingis remains sidelined as he continues rehabbing from surgery, though the team provided an encouraging update on his progress Monday.
The Cavaliers enter the game boasting a flawless 15-0 record. Adding to the stakes, this is also an NBA Cup game, making it crucial for Boston to secure a win after a previous loss to the Hawks. Cleveland has been dominant this season, holding the league’s second-best net rating, just behind the Thunder. The Celtics currently rank fourth.
Cleveland’s injury report includes key role players. Max Strus (right ankle sprain) and Dean Wade (left ankle sprain) are ruled out, while Caris LeVert (left knee), Sam Merrill (left ankle), and Isaac Okoro (left ankle) are listed as questionable. Notably, Donovan Mitchell, who missed Sunday’s game for rest, is not on the injury report and is expected to play.
Tuesday’s matchup is also a rematch of last year’s Eastern Conference semifinals, where the Celtics defeated the Cavaliers in five games. Cleveland managed to steal Game 2 in Boston, but the Celtics won three consecutive games to close the series. The Cavs were missing Donovan Mitchell for the final two games, as well as big man Jarrett Allen, both of whom are now healthy and likely eager for redemption.
If Pritchard is unavailable, it would be a significant loss for Boston. The bench guard has been on fire to start the season, averaging 15.5 points per game and emerging as an early contender for the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year.
