Celtics down to 8 available players vs. Heat
The Boston Celtics will have just eight active players - the minimum amount required, according to NBA rules - in Sunday's game against the Miami Heat.
Boston announced that nine players have been ruled out, with seven of those due to health and safety protocols, including stars Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum.
#NEBHInjuryReport update (1/3):
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) January 10, 2021
Jaylen Brown (Health & Safety Protocols) - OUT
Javonte Green (Health & Safety Protocols) - OUT
Romeo Langford (Right Wrist Surgery) - OUT
#NEBHInjuryReport continued (2/3):
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) January 10, 2021
Semi Ojeleye (Health & Safety Protocols) - OUT
Jayson Tatum (Health & Safety Protocols) - OUT
Tristan Thompson (Health & Safety Protocols) - OUT
#NEBHInjuryReport continued (3/3):
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) January 10, 2021
Kemba Walker (Left Knee Injury Recovery) - OUT
Grant Williams (Health & Safety Protocols) - OUT
Robert Williams (Health & Safety Protocols) - OUT
That leaves Boston with only Carsen Edwards, Tacko Fall, Aaron Nesmith, Payton Pritchard, Marcus Smart, Jeff Teague, Daniel Theis, and Tremont Waters available against Miami.
Tatum reportedly tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday, and the Celtics shut down their team facility in response. Center Robert Williams reportedly also tested positive Friday.
Meanwhile, Miami ruled out Avery Bradley due to health and safety protocols.
The Philadelphia 76ers faced a similar roster predicament in their matchup Saturday with the Denver Nuggets. However, Philadelphia only played with seven healthy players; forward Mike Scott was activated in order to avoid a forfeit but did not play.