This one’s going to be huge. Celtics vs. Lakers, two of the best teams in the league, going head-to-head in what could be an NBA Finals preview. Boston holds the league’s best record at 45-18, while the Lakers, led by LeBron James and Luka Doncic, are surging in the West at 40-21. The stage is set for a thriller.
But here’s where things get tricky. Kristaps Porzingis’ status is now a massive question mark, and if he doesn’t suit up, the Celtics could have a serious problem protecting the paint. And that’s not the only uncertainty—injuries on both sides could shift the entire game. Fans will be glued to the injury report, waiting to see who actually takes the floor in what might be one of the biggest games of the season.
Boston Celtics vs Los Angeles Lakers: Injury report
Right now, the biggest concern for Boston? Kristaps Porzingis. He’s listed as questionable with a non-COVID illness, and that’s a problem. The Celtics need him—his elite shot-blocking, rebounding, and floor spacing have been key to their success this season. If he’s out, the Celtics lose a major presence inside, which is the last thing they need against Anthony Davis.
But he’s not the only one on the injury report. Jrue Holiday is also questionable with a right-hand mallet finger injury, and Sam Hauser is dealing with a right ankle sprain. Neither injury is season-altering, but with Holiday’s defense and Hauser’s three-point shooting, their absence could affect the Celtics’ rhythm. The good news? Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are both healthy and ready to go, so Boston’s offensive firepower remains intact.
#Celtics Injury Report vs. #Lakers 3/8/25:
Sam Hauser – Right Ankle Sprain – QUESTIONABLE
Jrue Holiday – Right Hand Mallet Finger – QUESTIONABLE
Kristaps Porzingis – Illness (Non-Covid) – QUESTIONABLE
— CeltsAllDay (@celtsallday_) March 7, 2025
On the Lakers’ side, LeBron James is probable with a left foot injury, and Luka Doncic is probable with a right knee contusion. They’ll almost certainly play, but LA is still dealing with some depth issues. Rui Hachimura (knee) and Maxi Kleber (foot) are out, while Jaxson Hayes is questionable. Even so, the Lakers still have their two superstars, and with Doncic looking to make a statement in his first Celtics-Lakers game, they’re going to bring everything they’ve got.
How Porzingis’ Absence Could Impact the Celtics
Kristaps Porzingis has been a game-changer for Boston this season. He’s averaging 20.5 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game in 17 career matchups against the Lakers, and when these teams last met on January 23, he was one of the only bright spots for the Celtics. Boston got blown out 117-96, but Porzingis put up 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists.
If he can’t go, the Celtics will have to rely more on Al Horford and Luke Kornet, which could create defensive mismatches. Boston’s perimeter defenders will have to tighten up even more since they won’t have their usual shot-blocker behind them.
For the Lakers, this is a golden opportunity to exploit Boston’s interior defense. If Porzingis is out, expect them to attack the paint early and often, with LeBron and Doncic orchestrating the offense. They’re going to test Boston’s ability to hold up inside without their 7-foot-3 rim protector.
Jan 3, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) reacts after a dunk against the Houston Rockets during the first quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images
This game already had everything you’d want in a marquee matchup, but now, with Porzingis’ status in doubt, the stakes feel even higher. If he plays, the Celtics have a great chance to hold their ground and send a message. If he doesn’t, the Lakers could steal a huge road win and prove they’re legitimate title contenders.
One thing is for sure—this isn’t just another regular-season game. This is Celtics vs. Lakers, a rivalry packed with history, star power, and unforgettable moments. With LeBron and Doncic on one side and Tatum and Brown on the other, all eyes will be on TD Garden. And no matter who’s in or out, this one has all the makings of an instant classic.
The post Celtics Drop Key Kristaps Porzingis Update Ahead of Showdown against Luka Doncic’s Lakers appeared first on EssentiallySports.
