The Boston Celtics have had a mixed preseason so far, with two wins against the Philadelphia 76ers and one loss to their upcoming opponents, the New York Knicks.
Will the Celtics improve to a 3-1 record or will the Knicks take a 2-0 lead in their preseason clashes? We delve into lineup expectations, injury updates, and more.
After the Celtics rested their key players during their previous loss to the Knicks, questions arise about whether they will make significant changes to their starting lineup.
The initial lineup for that game featured Payton Pritchard, Dalano Banton, Sam Hauser, Oshae Brissett, and Luke Kornet, resulting in a final score of Celtics 107, Knicks 114.
Despite the loss, there were positives to take away, considering the Knicks played their full-strength starting five. The big question is whether the Celtics will stick with a rotated lineup or reintegrate star players for their upcoming preseason clash.
One standout player during the preseason has been Pritchard, who has exceeded expectations after his contract extension, proving his doubters wrong with impressive performances.
While Jrue Holiday deserves a starting spot, Pritchard’s excellent play presents a compelling case for him to start. Nevertheless, Holiday is likely to get the nod due to team chemistry considerations, but Pritchard is expected to receive substantial minutes off the bench.
Banton, who started at shooting guard against the Knicks, showcased his abilities by scoring 20 points on 8-19 shooting.
However, Derrick White’s impressive display against the 76ers positions him as the likely starter against the Knicks. White’s strong preseason performances suggest he could be a regular starter in the upcoming season.
Svi Mykhailiuk has been a consistent scorer in the preseason, displaying exceptional shooting prowess. While Mykhailiuk deserves a starting role, it’s expected that Sam Hauser will return to the lineup to build momentum for the regular season.
In the frontcourt, with Jayson Tatum’s availability in question and Luke Kornet’s performance falling short, the power forward and center positions are up for grabs.
Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis have performed well in the preseason, indicating they may start against the Knicks.
A double-big lineup against Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson could be crucial, making it likely that both Horford and Porzingis will get the start. Kornet is expected to contribute off the bench.
Projected Boston Celtics Starting Lineup:
PG: Jrue Holiday
SG: Derrick White
SF: Sam Hauser
PF: Al Horford
C: Kristaps Porzingis
While the Celtics may experiment with their starting five, the preseason’s final two games are an opportunity to build momentum for the regular season. Expect rotation players to receive extended minutes off the bench.
The New York Knicks have fielded their full-strength starting five in their preseason games, resulting in one win and one loss. It remains to be seen whether they will alter their lineup for the upcoming game against the Celtics.
Immanuel Quickley’s outstanding offensive performance against the Celtics was followed by a dip in his second preseason game against the Timberwolves.
If the Knicks decide to rest or give their star players a bench role, Quickley may earn a starting spot. However, it’s likely that Jalen Brunson will start, considering his importance to the team.
Quentin Grimes has struggled in the preseason, potentially leading to a reduced role against the Celtics. Evan Fournier, with solid performances in both games, is poised to fight for a larger role. While there’s a chance Donte DiVincenzo could start, Fournier is the expected choice.
RJ Barrett, despite some inconsistencies, has shown his potential as a starter. His performance against the Timberwolves indicates he will likely retain his starting role. Josh Hart may deserve a chance, but Barrett’s momentum will likely keep him in the lineup.
Julius Randle is expected to start at power forward due to a lack of depth in that position. Jericho Sims may not start due to recent poor form, but he could contribute off the bench.
Isaiah Hartenstein, while consistent as a scorer, is unlikely to start over Mitchell Robinson, who has been crucial on the defensive end. Robinson’s shot-blocking ability makes him a probable starter.
Projected New York Knicks Starting Lineup:
PG: Jalen Brunson
SG: Evan Fournier
SF: RJ Barrett
PF: Julius Randle
C: Mitchell Robinson
As the preseason’s final game approaches, some adjustments may occur in the Knicks’ lineup, with potential opportunities for role players to prove themselves.
Injury Report for the October 17th Preseason Game between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks:
Boston Celtics: Jay Scrubb – OUT (Torn ACL)
Boston Celtics: Jaylen Brown – Questionable (Rest)
Boston Celtics: Jayson Tatum – Questionable (Rest)
New York Knicks: Ryan Arcidiacono – Questionable (Rest)”
Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks – TD Garden – 7:30 pm (ET)
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