NBA: Brooklyn Nets vs Boston Celtics Injury Reports, Predicted Lineups, and Starting 5s

In possibly the most anticipated first-round NBA matchup this year, the Brooklyn Nets will travel to TD Garden to face the Boston Celtics. The Nets got out to a strong start, but a slew of setbacks caused them to fall off the East's top spot. Kyrie Irving has been cleared for home games, while Kevin Durant has only recently returned from a knee injury. Ben Simmons, on the other hand, has yet to play for the Nets, who appear to be putting things together just in time for the playoffs. Meanwhile, despite rumors of player unhappiness, the Celtics have had a terrific season thus far. The Celtics finished second in the East under rookie coach Ime Udoka, winning seven of their last ten games. They'll count on Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to perform once again.

Injury Report for the Brooklyn Nets

The Nets had a near-perfect health record heading into this game. Only Ben Simmons and Joe Harris are ruled out of the running. Due to a back ailment, the Australian is out, while Harris is recovering from ankle surgery.

Injury Update for the Boston Celtics

Boston, like the Nets, has a near-perfect health record. Robert Williams III, their lone absentee, is expected to lose a significant amount of time due to a knee injury.

Predicted Lineups for Brooklyn Nets vs. Boston Celtics

Brooklyn Nets

The backcourt should be handled by Kyrie Irving and Seth Curry, while the frontcourt should be handled by Kevin Durant and Bruce Brown. The center should be Andre Drummond.

Boston Celtics

The starting guards should be Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown, while the forwards might be Jayson Tatum and Al Horford. In the absence of Robert Williams III, Daniel Theis will most likely start at center.

Predicted Starting 5s for Brooklyn Nets vs. Boston Celtics

Brooklyn Nets

G - Kyrie Irving | G - Seth Curry | F - Bruce Brown | F - Kevin Durant | C - Andre Drummond.

Boston Celtics

G: Marcus Smart | G: Jaylen Brown | F: Jayson Tatum | F: Al Horford | C: Daniel Theis.