The Boston Celtics will head into Friday night’s matchup against the Miami Heat with a clearer picture of their short-term health. Two key wings appeared on the injury report ahead of the game.
With Jayson Tatum still sidelined during his long recovery, even minor movement along the perimeter matters. Nothing has been ruled out, but the update is one Boston will continue to monitor as it prepares for a physical matchup at TD Garden.
Where the Celtics Stand With Hauser and Minott
Sam Hauser is listed as probable with a left ankle sprain suffered earlier in the week. The injury is not related to the right ankle issue that affected him during last season’s playoff run.
Hauser is averaging 6.6 points in 21.6 minutes per game while shooting 34 percent from three this season. The efficiency has dipped, but his role has remained consistent, particularly in lineups that rely on spacing and off-ball movement.
Josh Minott is also listed as probable, dealing with low back spasms. He has yet to miss a game this season and has settled into a steady role. Minott is averaging 7.0 points and 4.4 rebounds in 19 minutes per night while shooting 44.3 percent from beyond the arc.
As of now, there has been no indication either player’s status is expected to change before tipoff.
How Boston Has Covered Minutes When Needed
Boston has already shown how it responds when rotation pieces are unavailable.
During Hauser’s recent absence, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard absorbed additional minutes along the perimeter. Baylor Scheierman and Hugo González were asked to take on larger bench roles, and the Celtics were able to maintain their structure.
After that game, head coach Joe Mazzulla framed the adjustment as part of the team’s baseline rather than a deviation.
“Not having Sam, his ability to execute and really play from an offensive standpoint, getting us defensively,” Mazzulla said. “But we talked about before the game, that’s just part of the depth that we have. The next guy’s got to play.”
That approach has helped Boston avoid overcorrecting when minor absences arise.
Why the Context Matters Against Miami
Outside of Tatum’s long-term absence, the Celtics have dealt with only brief interruptions this season. Neemias Queta, Derrick White, and Jaylen Brown have each missed limited time, but the rotation has largely remained intact.
That continuity becomes more important against a Miami team that leans heavily on physical defense and half-court execution.
With both Hauser and Minott listed as probable, Mazzulla enters Friday’s game with flexibility rather than forced adjustments.
Final Word for the Celtics
The Celtics will be looking to bounce back Friday night against a well-coached Miami team after dropping their last two games.
As of now, the injury report suggests they’ll have most of their rotation available ahead of a physical matchup at TD Garden.
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