Boston Celtics supporters have reason to celebrate tonight. As the team prepares to host the Portland Trail Blazers at TD Garden, a major boost could be on the way that might swing the momentum firmly in the Green’s favor.
Reserve forward Josh Minott has been upgraded to questionable for Monday’s clash after missing time since January 3 with a sprained ankle. The 23-year-old athletic wing had slipped out of head coach Joe Mazzulla’s regular rotation before the injury, but his return could inject fresh energy and depth into a Boston bench that’s hungry for a spark. Minott is enjoying career-best numbers this season — averaging 6.3 points and 4.0 rebounds across 29 games, including 10 starts — and his explosiveness could prove decisive against a battered Portland squad.
The news isn’t all positive up front, however. Starting center Neemias Queta remains questionable with an illness, marking his second consecutive game on the injury report. Queta shifted to the bench for the first time this season in Saturday’s tough loss to the Bulls, yet still logged a solid 24 minutes. Two-way big Amari Williams drew the start in his place but saw limited action with just 10 minutes on the floor.
Across the court, the Trail Blazers are limping into Boston with their own injury concerns. Leading scorer Deni Avdija is questionable with a lower back strain, while former Celtic Robert Williams III is also questionable due to a knee issue. Monday marks Time Lord’s first trip back to TD Garden since being traded in September 2023 as part of the blockbuster that brought Jrue Holiday to Boston.
Speaking of Holiday — he’s now back in Portland colors after Boston shipped him out this past July in exchange for sharp-shooter Anfernee Simons. Holiday is fully healthy and will suit up against his former team after sitting out last month’s meeting with a calf injury. Portland fans will remember their thrilling 114-108 comeback victory over the Celtics in December, and they’ll be hoping for an encore.
With both teams navigating key absences but Boston potentially gaining a major piece back in Minott, this late-season showdown has all the makings of a thriller. Weather permitting, tip-off is set for 8:00 p.m. ET at TD Garden. Celtics Nation, get ready — this one could be special!