New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, right, falls back after fouling Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)AP
As the Boston Celtics head into a highly anticipated matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks, all eyes are on the injury report—particularly on Jaylen Brown. The Celtics star has been sidelined for four games due to a strained left hip flexor, but the team has now listed him as questionable, leaving a glimmer of hope for his return. Head Coach Joe Mazzulla provided an update on Brown’s condition, describing his progress as “day-to-day, like the rest of us. (Brown) getting better. Getting a little bit better each day. Getting there.”
Also read - As Zion Battles Injury, Girlfriend Ahkeema Offers Support and Comfort
Celtics Show Resilience Despite Injuries
Boston’s 8-2 record through their first ten games highlights their strong start, even in the face of significant injuries. Brown’s absence, combined with Kristaps Porzingis’ extended recovery from offseason surgery, could have derailed the Celtics. Yet, they’ve managed to keep pushing forward, most recently with a 108-104 overtime win against the Brooklyn Nets. Although they’ve listed several players as questionable, including backup center Luke Kornet, the Celtics are prepared to go toe-to-toe with a Bucks team desperate for momentum.
Celtics’ Injury List: Brown, Kornet, and Springer Questionable
The Celtics’ depth will be tested tonight. Along with Brown, Kornet is questionable after tweaking his hamstring in Wednesday’s game against the Golden State Warriors, while reserve guard Jade Springer could also sit out due to a knee injury. Boston’s frontcourt options may be thin, with Kornet’s absence likely pushing Neemias Queta or Xavier Tillman into the rotation alongside Al Horford. Meanwhile, Porzingis remains on track to return in December, which would further bolster Boston’s impressive defense and versatility.
Bucks Aim for an Upset Amid Early-Season Struggles
Milwaukee entered this season with high expectations, but an underwhelming 2-7 start places them near the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Despite fielding superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, who are both posting strong individual numbers, the Bucks’ inconsistent defense and rebounding have contributed to their lackluster performance. With Boston’s balanced approach on both ends of the floor, Milwaukee faces an uphill battle tonight.
Key Injuries Continue to Impact Milwaukee’s Rotation
Milwaukee’s injury report features several key names. Giannis Antetokounmpo, battling a right adductor strain and patellar tendinopathy, is probable but has been a frequent presence on the list. Khris Middleton, who underwent his third consecutive offseason surgery this past summer, remains out indefinitely, leaving a noticeable gap in Milwaukee’s lineup. Guards Andre Jackson Jr. and Gary Trent Jr. are both listed as questionable, further complicating Milwaukee’s rotation, while Ryan Rollins, recovering from a shoulder injury, is expected to play limited minutes.
Head-to-Head: Celtics' Balanced Attack vs. Bucks' Offensive Powerhouses
Boston’s strong defensive capabilities and efficient scoring contrast sharply with Milwaukee’s recent offensive struggles. The Celtics are averaging 96.8 points per game to the Bucks’ 81.3, a disparity that could spell trouble for Milwaukee if Boston’s defense holds up. Historically, the Bucks hold a slight edge in their overall encounters, with 119 wins out of 231 games, but Boston’s current momentum and cohesive play style may make that statistic irrelevant.