The latest league injury update shows Boston dealing with multiple game-time decisions, with Brown managing Achilles tendinitis and White dealing with a knee issue, leaving their availability up in the air right before tip-off.

With playoff positioning still on the line, their final lineup decisions will be closely monitored. The Knicks, meanwhile, are preparing for multiple scenarios depending on whether Boston’s key backcourt pieces are cleared to play.

How and when did Jaylen Brown get injured?

Jaylen Brown did not suffer a single specific in-game injury; instead, his current issue — left Achilles tendinitis — developed gradually during the 2025–26 NBA season due to workload and overuse.

The Boston Celtics star has been managing discomfort in his left Achilles for several weeks, with the condition flaring up during stretches of heavy minutes and back-to-back games.

According to official NBA injury reports and team updates, the issue became more noticeable in the final stretch of the regular season, forcing Boston to list him as questionable in multiple matchups.

Rather than a contact injury, this is classified as an overuse condition, meaning it worsens over time with repetitive strain. The Celtics have occasionally limited his minutes or monitored him in pregame warmups to prevent further aggravation.

How has Jaylen Brown been this season?

Jaylen Brown has delivered another All-NBA-level season, averaging roughly 25 points, 6 rebounds and around 5 assists per game. He continues to be one of Boston’s primary scoring engines, regularly creating offense in isolation and transition while sharing lead responsibilities with Jayson Tatum.

His efficiency has remained strong, shooting close to 49% from the field and around 37% from three-point range, depending on the stretch of the season. Despite managing his injury late in the year, he has remained one of the Celtics’ most productive and impactful players in their push toward the playoffs.

How and when did Derrick White get injured?

Derrick White’s current injury stems from a right knee contusion, which is a contact-based bruise typically suffered during in-game collisions in the 2025–26 season.

The guard picked up the issue after taking contact to the knee during recent gameplay, with the injury being officially listed on the NBA injury report shortly afterward. A contusion like this does not involve structural damage, but it can cause swelling and discomfort depending on impact severity.

Since then, he has been considered day-to-day, with the Celtics evaluating his status on a game-by-game basis. His inclusion on the questionable list for recent games reflects precaution rather than a long-term concern.

How has Derrick White been this season?

Derrick White has been one of the most consistent two-way guards this season, averaging around 17 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists per game. His role as a secondary playmaker has been essential in stabilizing the offense when primary scorers are pressured.

White has also been a strong perimeter shooter, connecting on nearly 39% of his three-point attempts while maintaining high efficiency in the Boston Celtics’ ball movement system.

Defensively, he remains one of the most reliable perimeter stoppers, frequently assigned to opposing guards and closing out games due to his versatility and decision-making.

His presence on the floor carries weight on both ends of the game, influencing scoring balance and defensive matchups. Any uncertainty surrounding the lineup draws attention, particularly in a matchup that features two competitive Western and Eastern Conference contenders.

As game time approaches, pre-game reports and official injury updates become central to understanding the rotation. Whether listed as active or sidelined, the decision impacts Boston’s approach in a high-profile meeting that continues to draw league-wide interest.

Jaylen Brown’s status for Celtics vs. Suns game

As the Celtics prepare to face the Suns on Feb. 24, Boston’s injury report reflects some late-breaking uncertainty around their star wing. Jaylen Brown is officially listed as questionable with a right knee contusion, the result of a minor knock sustained late in Sunday’s win over the Los Angeles Lakers.

That designation means his status won’t be confirmed until closer to tipoff, with Celtics personnel monitoring his reaction to pre-game treatment and warm-ups. With teammate Jayson Tatum out on the Achilles injury report as well, how Boston manages its rotation figures to be one of the central storylines.

On the other side, Phoenix enters the game with a depleted roster of its own, giving context to the importance of Boston’s health check. Brown’s eventual decision to play or not could influence not only rotations but also strategic matchups in what remains a tightly contested late-season clash.

Boston Celtics vs. Phoenix Suns possible starting lineups

Boston Celtics

• PG: Baylor Scheierman
• SG: Derrick White
• SF: Jaylen Brown
• PF: Sam Hauser
• C: Neemies Queta

Phoenix Suns

• PG: Collin Gillespie
• SG: Jalen Green
• SF: Ryan Dunn
• PF: Royce O’Neale
• C: Mark Williams

During the post-game press conference, when queried about his relationship with Brown, LeBron responded with a touch of humor. “Our relationship has been pretty respectful. Besides the stuff he said about Bronny in the Summer League. But other than that, we’ve been all right,” James commented, revealing a light-hearted approach to their interactions.

Although their relationship remains largely respectful, Lakers‘ star’s remarks underscored his sensitivity towards any mentions of his son in NBA circles. This echoes a prior incident involving Stephen A. Smith, which resulted in a notable exchange before an NBA game last season.

“We’ll be alright,” LeBron continued, addressing Brown‘s comments. “But you know, I think he made some comments on social media about it. It’s all good, and there are other things to focus on at other times.”

Brown’s reflections following victory over Lakers

Conversely, Brown chose to focus on the positive feedback he received from LeBron, particularly highlighting James’ acknowledgment of his playing style and potential to secure the MVP title this year.

“I feel like I’m the best two-way player in the world… It’s an honor for LeBron, who’s arguably the best player to ever play the game, to give me some high praise,” Brown remarked, reflecting on the shared respect despite competitive tensions.

While the verbal exchanges captured headlines, the outcome on the court was definitive. The Celtics’ commanding performance against the Lakers on Sunday night speaks volumes about the team’s potential, even as they anticipate the return of star player Jayson Tatum, who is expected back on March 1st.

During a recent livestream with DDG, Brown directly addressed LeBron James and several other high-profile players, according to reports from Athlon Sports and Yahoo Sports. Brown made it clear that his criticism centered on what he sees as excessive flopping, a tactic he believes has become far too common across the league.

“There’s a difference between drawing a foul and flopping,” Brown said during the stream. “Flopping is acting like you got hit when you didn’t actually get hit.” Brown acknowledged that the behavior is widespread, adding, “Everyone does it. A lot of offensive players do it.”

Brown also referenced several elite talents around the league, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Joel Embiid, James Harden, Luka Doncic, and Nikola Jokic. He stressed that his comments were not meant to single anyone out, but rather to highlight a league-wide issue that has become ingrained in modern NBA play.

Jaylen Brown’s current numbers

At present, Brown is averaging 29.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, continuing to serve as a centerpiece for the Boston Celtics. The Celtics are 15-12 on the season and recently dropped a 112-105 decision to the Detroit Pistons.

In that loss, Brown delivered a standout individual performance, finishing with 34 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. Despite the defeat, his production reinforced his status as one of the most consistent two way wings in the NBA.

Players often associated with flopping

Throughout his career, James has frequently been criticized and mocked for his trips to the free-throw line, though he was far from alone in that regard. Other prominent names often linked to the tactic include James Harden, Chris Paul, Reggie Miller, Patrick Beverley, and Lance Stephenson.

Veterans such as Dennis Rodman, Robert Horry, and Vlade Divac were also known for exaggerating contact during their playing days. The primary motivations were usually the same, forcing opponents into foul trouble and increasing opportunities at the free-throw line, a strategy that continues to shape NBA games today.

Luka Doncic remains away from the team for personal reasons. The Lakers star and his fiancée, Anamaria Goltes, recently welcomed their second daughter, which kept him out of Thursday’s game against the Raptors. According to the official injury report, he is listed as out for tonight’s matchup.

For the Lakers, LeBron James, who played in the game against Toronto, according to NBA Underdog, has been downgraded to out due to right sciatica and left foot joint arthritis for tonight’s matchup.

The Celtics could also face a significant absence. Jaylen Brown missed the previous game against the Wizards due to a non-COVID illness, but according to NBA Underdog, he is not listed on the injury report for tonight, suggesting he is expected to return.

The impact of Jaylen Brown

Jaylen Brown is having a career-best season offensively. He is averaging 29 points per game on 49.9% shooting while also posting a career-high 4.8 assists. Even in games without Jayson Tatum, Brown is keeping the Celtics strong near the top of the Eastern Conference standings. His presence continues to be crucial.

LeBron James’ performance in the last game

Against the Raptors, LeBron saw his historic streak of 1,297 consecutive games scoring in double digits come to an end. He finished with eight points and passed up the chance to extend the streak on the final possession, choosing instead to dish to Rui Hachimura, who hit the game-winning shot. It was a memorable ending, even as the streak ended.

James is averaging 15.2 points and 7.2 assists this season. His potential absence would force major adjustments for head coach JJ Redick. With Doncic and Marcus Smart likely unavailable for their teams, Austin Reaves will continue to handle significant ball-handling duties. He is averaging 28.9 points and 6.8 assists per game this NBA season.

With three seconds remaining and Boston leading 115-112, Cunningham was fouled by Jordan Walsh as he crossed halfcourt before he could get a shot off. After the referees reviewed the play, they determined it was a shooting foul, sending Cunningham to the free-throw line with three attempts and a chance to tie the game.

However, after successfully converting the first two, the 24-year-old guard missed the third free throw, squandering an optimal opportunity to equalize the match and potentially send it to overtime. Payton Pritchard secured the rebound for Boston, was immediately fouled, and sank two free throws with 2.4 seconds remaining to seal the triumph.

Following the Celtics’ epic victory—which ended the Pistons’ long streak—Brown didn’t hesitate to take a subtle shot at Cunningham and the referees’ controversial ruling. “Ball don’t lie. Ball don’t f— lie,” the Boston forward said, implying the officials had incorrectly called a shooting foul on Cunningham.

Despite having an incredible night by scoring 42 points, along with eight rebounds and five assists, the missed final free throw that could have forced overtime ultimately tainted the excellent performance by the 2021 NBA Draft’s first overall pick.

Brown makes Celtics history

In the absence of Jayson Tatum, Brown is genuinely performing as a leader and is the driving force for the Celtics, ensuring they remain competitive this season despite not having one of the best players in the franchise’s history. The forward is currently averaging a career-high 28.2 points per game, along with 5.8 rebounds and 4.3 assists.

By leading his team to victory against the Pistons, Jaylen Brown etched his name into the franchise history books. After scoring 33 points against Detroit, Brown became the third player in Celtics history to reach 500 points through the first 18 games of a season, joining Jayson Tatum (2022-23, 2024-25) and John Havlicek (1970-71), according to Celtics Stats on X.

When Tatum is healthy, he and Brown form one of the best duos in the league, making Boston serious title contenders—a championship they already won in 2024. However, with Tatum sidelined for the remainder of the season, Brown faces the massive challenge of leading Boston in the fight for the trophy.

According to the latest NBA injury report, the Celtics have listed Jaylen Brown as available to play for tonight’s matchup against the Cavaliers. The four-time All-Star has played in all four of the Celtics’ games averaging 26 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game.

Brown has been dealing with a hamstring strain since the season began, but after the Celtics stumbled to an 0-3 start, the Boston star said he wasn’t planning to sit until his team got things back on track. They successfully snapped the skid against the Pelicans, a contest where Brown recorded 15 points, seven rebounds, and four assists in 21 minutes.

“I had to get on the floor,” Brown told reporters after the game, via CLNS Media. “We had to find a way to get the win, so I was going to play until we figured that part out. From my body standpoint, just managing it. Just trying to stay within myself, not overextend myself too much.”

Addressing the Celtics’ struggles

The Celtics’ unexpectedly rough start this NBA season—dropping their first three games—is largely due to the absence of Jayson Tatum, who is reportedly out for the entire season to recover from a ruptured Achilles tendon suffered during last season’s playoffs.

Amid this challenging situation, Brown acknowledged that finding the right rhythm will take time due to the major turnover in the roster this season. “It’s going to take some time. We lost four All-Stars from last season between Al [Horford], Jrue [Holiday], Kristaps [Porziņģis], and JT [Jayson Tatum] being out,” he noted.

Brown also emphasized the loss of depth, pointing out Luke Kornet’s departure: “And Luke [Kornet]’s an All-Star to me. Luke’s an All-Star in all of our hearts. We didn’t lose one guy, we lost five. Replacing those guys doesn’t happen overnight”.

The Boston Celtics are one of the most relevant teams in the NBA. In fact, they’re seen as one of the best franchises in the whole league. However, as the season starts, injuries might pile up and now that they play the New Orleans Pelicans, the question is if Jaylen Brown will play or not.

Jaylen Brown is questionable to play due to injury management. Brown has played three games this season averaging 35.7 minutes a game. Not only that, he scores 29.7 points per game, 5.3 rebounds per game, 3.7 assists per game, and he is shooting 50% from three.

Brown is playing as small forward but also can play as shooting guard if needed. He is a tenured Celtic and he really improves the offense on this roster. He is also one of the leaders of the team.

The Celtics really need Brown

Jaylen Brown is clearly the one to guide the Celtics into a better path. They need him more than ever as forward Jayson Tatum is still nursing an Achilles injury that will sideline him for the whole season. Hence, it’s Brown’s duty to make this team offensively relevant.

The next best scorer on the team is shooting guard Derrick White with only 18.3 points, followed by Payton Pritchard with 15. There is a big need for this team to get Brown scoring help, that’s how the NBA works now.

The start of the season has been very bad for the Celtics

The season started with a devastating one-point loss to the 76ers. That was followed by a 10-point loss to the Knicks at Madison Square Garden. The bad start was confirmed by a six-point loss to the Pistons, which sees the Celtics heading into tonight’s game with an 0-3 record.

All have been very close games, which just strengthens the fact that the team needs Brown. Also, they need to find a certified second option on offense to win games. If it’s a close game, Brown will be strongly marked and if no one else can pose a threat, it’s going to be loss after a loss for the C’s, including tonight vs. Pelicans.

The Celtics have listed Jaylen Brown as questionable and a game-time decision after he suffered a left hamstring strain during the preseason against the Toronto Raptors. However, Underdog NBA reported that Brown will play tonight.

However, Brown provided some optimism after Tuesday’s practice, telling reporters he’s feeling good but will continue to take things day by day. “We’ll take it one day at a time, but as of now, I feel great,” Brown said.

The Celtics are expected to lean heavily on Brown early in the season with Jayson Tatum sidelined until February due to an Achilles injury. The All-Star averaged 22.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game last season and remains one of Joe Mazzulla’s most important pieces.

76ers also dealing with key absences

The Philadelphia 76ers enter the new NBA season looking to bounce back from last year’s disappointing campaign. However, they won’t have a full squad available for their season opener — though the good news is that Joel Embiid is cleared to play.

Head coach Nick Nurse will be without Jared McCain (right thumb), Trendon Watford (left hamstring tightness), and veteran forward Paul George (knee). That leaves extra pressure on Embiid and Tyrese Maxey to carry the load as the Sixers look to start the season on a strong note.

Another key figure for Boston, Jaylen Brown, also faced a health scare after leaving the Celtics’ final preseason game in the first quarter due to a hamstring strain.

Fortunately for the Celtics, head coach Joe Mazzulla appeared unconcerned about Brown’s condition. Less than two days after the incident during Boston’s 110-108 win over the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night, Brown was back to practicing normally.

“He was able to do everything but the live stuff,” Mazzulla said Friday afternoon at the Auerbach Center. When asked whether Brown would be ready for the regular-season opener, Mazzulla didn’t provide a definitive answer. “I haven’t caught up with him yet,” he admitted. “I expect him to be at his best every single day and then we’ll kind of take it from there. But just one day at a time.”

What’s next for the Boston Celtics?

With the weekend off, the Celtics will have time to rest ahead of their first contest of the 2025-26 season, which takes place at TD Garden on Wednesday, October 22. Boston will face their rivals, the Philadelphia 76ers, who are also dealing with injury issues.

The Celtics hope to find a consistent playing style and explosive performances from their roster, especially after dismantling the team that won the 2023 championship. Without Tatum, the responsibility will largely fall on Brown and Derrick Rose to lead the charge.

What lies ahead for brown this season

Brown will likely face a challenging season, needing to carry the team’s scoring and leadership load. With Tatum expected to miss most of the NBA season, and the New York Knicks projected as one of the top teams in the East, Brown will have to rise to the occasion while navigating a highly competitive environment.

According to Holiday, the real challenge during Celtics practices was Payton Pritchard. The two-time NBA champion named the relentless backup guard as the one who gave him the most trouble in full-court drills.

“It might be Payton [Pritchard],” Holiday said on Run It Back TV. “There’s this drill that we have where you have to dribble against Payton full-court. He just be going crazy. Speed, handle, low to the ground so he could body you. Stops on a dime. Payton’s cold, bro.”

Holiday spent two seasons in Boston, averaging 11.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game while shooting 46.4 percent from the field. As the Celtics’ starting point guard, he helped lead them to the 2024 championship — just three years after lifting the Larry O’Brien Trophy with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Unfortunately, Holiday’s run with the Celtics recently came to an end following his trade to the Portland Trail Blazers this preseason. The move was a tough blow for Boston’s roster, but the front office chose to cut salary after a string of injuries derailed their title hopes heading into the 2025-26 campaign.

The Celtics, however, managed to keep Pritchard, a decision that looks increasingly valuable. Last season, he averaged 14.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in a career-high 28.4 minutes per game. He carved out a sizeable role as one of the first options off the bench and became an integral part of their rotation. Now, he is gonna be more important with the absent of Jayson Tatum and could be a great partner of Brown.

His role only grew in importance over the course of the year, culminating in recognition as the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year. Pritchard’s consistent and selfless scoring was paired with disruptive defense, which Boston regularly used in practice to sharpen their stars’ ball-handling skills.

For Holiday, the impression was clear: Pritchard is more than a spark plug. In his eyes, the Celtics have a “secret weapon” in the scrappy guard — a player whose value extends well beyond the box score.