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From the Celtics:
Amir Johnson (plantar fasciitis in left foot) and Jared Sullinger (back spasms) are both out for tonight's game.
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) December 21, 2015
Per Scott Souza, Amir's plantar was a known issue this weekend, but Sullinger did not complain about back pain after practice yesterday. Both injuries are a little concerning. Plantar fasciitis can be a lingering issue if not completely eliminated when it flares up.
The news on Sullinger is just as worrisome. He looks fine right here:
However, the big man has been troubled by back problems dating back to his college years and surgery ended his rookie season after only 45 games.
The big question is, who starts? David Lee, Tyler Zeller, Kelly Olynyk, and Jonas Jerebko will certainly all get more time and minutes will be do doled out based on matchups and who's hot, but it's a mystery who plays along with Isaiah Thomas, Avery Bradley, and Jae Crowder.
My (hypothetical) money's on Lee/Zeller starting. Think we could've seen Turner-Crowder-Olynyk frontcourt if not for such a lengthy opponent
— Marc D'Amico (@Marc_DAmico) December 21, 2015
That's a good guess by D'Amico. Zeller and Lee started the season in the starting five, but I wouldn't be surprised if Kelly Olynyk got the nod of DLee. Neither are defensive stalwarts, but Olynyk will help stretch the floor more and this is backed by no analytical basis or fact, but there's this weird magic that happens when Lee and Evan Turner are on the floor.
If you're playing FanDuel, your guess is as good as mine. It probably won't matter who starts, but if you want to grab a cheap center, I'd bet on TZ. Despite the fact that he's collected more DNP-CD's than shot free throws this month, he's an efficient player that could easily net a double-double if he sees consistent minutes. If you're not playing FanDuel, you can sign up here and join tonight's one-day fantasy league where half the teams win money!
UPDATE:
With Sullinger and Amir Johnson out, the Celtics tonight will start Isaiah Thomas, Avery Bradley, Jae Crowder, Kelly Olynyk and David Lee.
— Sean Grande (@SeanGrandePBP) December 21, 2015