Jayson Tatum sidelined with Achilles injury as Heat prepare for Celtics clash
In a matchup that promises to be intense, the Miami Heat are set to face the Boston Celtics on Friday, December 19, at 7:00 p.m. EST, at TD Garden in Boston. However, the Celtics will be without their star forward, Jayson Tatum, who is out due to an Achilles injury.
Injury Report
HEAT
Tyler Herro: Out – Toe
Nikola Jovic: Out – Elbow
Pelle Larsson: Out – Hip
Terry Rozier: Out – Not with team
CELTICS
Sam Hauser: Day-to-day – Ankle
Josh Minott: Day-to-day – Back
Ron Harper Jr.: Day-to-day – Calf
Jayson Tatum: Out – Achilles
Game Details
As the Heat (15-12) and Celtics (15-11) meet for the first of four regular-season matchups, Boston looks to maintain its advantage from last season when they won the series 3-1. Historically, the Heat have struggled against the Celtics, holding a record of 54-86 in the regular season, including 30-42 at home and 24-44 on the road.
Projected Starters
HEAT
G Davion Mitchell
G Norman Powell
C Kel’el Ware
F Andrew Wiggins
F Bam Adebayo
CELTICS
G Payton Pritchard
G Derrick White
C Neeimas Queta
F Jaylen Brown
F Jordan Walsh
Betting Lines
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the betting lines for this matchup are as follows:
Spread: Heat +6.5 (-110), Celtics -6.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Heat +200, Celtics -245
Total points scored: 233.5 (over -114, under -106)
Coach’s Perspective
In the lead-up to this significant game, Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra shared his expectations for rookie Kel’el Ware. Prior to a recent victory against the Brooklyn Nets, Spoelstra noted, “I want to see those numbers, the pick-and-rolls, when he’s involved, at a similar level as when Bam’s [Adebayo] involved. That’s a tall task, I get it, but he’s getting better; just have to continue to make those strides.”
Looking Ahead
As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, the absence of Jayson Tatum looms large for the Celtics. The Heat will need to capitalize on this opportunity to secure a vital win in the early stages of the season. With the stakes high and both teams eager to establish their dominance, fans can anticipate an electrifying atmosphere in Boston.
