The Boston Celtics are looking to win back-to-back titles, and their health will be a major factor.
Over the past few weeks, the Celtics have dealt with a number of injuries, even impacting their players’ availability during the first round against the Orlando Magic. Throughout the five-game series win, Boston was without Jayson Tatum and Jrue Holiday for some contests.
However, the Celtics’ biggest injury concern coming into the postseason was reigning Finals MVP Jaylen Brown. After dealing with knee issues toward the end of the regular season, Brown received injections in his right knee leading up to the start of the playoffs.
Those knee issues seemed to bother Brown a bit over the past couple of weeks, with him going as far to say he had to play differently. While Brown has made it a point to not lean as much on his pure athleticism, he has still made a significant impact for the Celtics.
Against the Magic, Brown averaged 23 points and 7.6 rebounds while shooting 49.4% from the field and 44.4% from 3-point range. Considering how he did against the Magic, Brown’s knee doesn’t seem to be much of an issue, and he expects his health to improve as time moves on.
"I think I’m starting to turn the curve,” Brown said. “Structurally, everything is fine. I’ve had some other stuff going on, but I think I’m trending in the right direction."
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As Brown believes he is getting closer to 100%, the Celtics are preparing to begin their second-round series against the New York Knicks. Boston is looking to earn its fourth consecutive trip to the conference finals against a team it swept in the regular season.
Assuming Brown can continue to play at the top of his game, the Celtics should have no problem advancing past the second round yet again.
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