On Saturday night at TD Garden, the Celtics delivered an impressive 50-point blowout against the 76ers, marking their first game back home since claiming Banner 18.
Just a day later, they’re gearing up to host the Raptors in the second half of a preseason back-to-back matchup.
In his pregame press conference, Joe Mazzulla announced that Boston plans to rest its starters for the game against Toronto.
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Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, and Luke Kornet will join Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis on the inactive list for the game against Toronto.
This opens the door for players like Lonnie Walker IV, who made a splash in Saturday’s win over Philadelphia with nine points and seven assists.
Jaden Springer, who sat out against his former team, and Ron Harper Jr., who started his NBA journey on a two-way contract with the Raptors, are also positioned for extended minutes.
Keep an eye on the two rookies from the reigning champions, Baylor Scheierman and Anton Watson, as well as veterans Payton Pritchard, Sam Hauser, and Neemias Queta, all of whom could step into starting roles.
Before the game, Joe Mazzulla emphasized the importance of maintaining the Celtics’ “standard” and “continuity,” highlighting how the team remains effective regardless of who is sidelined. Boston’s approach to the game remains unwavering, no matter the lineup.
