Isaiah Thomas out against Magic with groin injury

The Celtics are going to be without Isaiah Thomas for the first time since April 15, 2015 when they play the Magic tonight in Orlando. Thomas suffered a groin injury in Houston on Monday, missed practice yesterday, and will now break a streak of 113 straight games played with Boston including 10 in the playoffs.

Thomas hoped the day of rest would ease up the injury, that he says he suffered in the second quarter Monday, but the flight back to Boston indicates it may be a bigger concern than originally thought. Brad Stevens said, "It's an injury to be weary of because it can hamper you.”

After sitting on the sideline throughout practice, Thomas was able to shoot at the end of it.

His absence opens the door for Marcus Smart, Terry Rozier and the recently recalled Demetrius Jackson to assume ball duties in his place. Whether or not Thomas is available toward Friday’s game, back in Boston against the Raptors is key to how long-term of an issue this could be. As of now there’s no timetable for his return.

The C’s have been ravaged with injuries throughout the early part of the 2016-17 season. Part of the reason for their 12-9 record, just north of .500, was the nine game absence of Al Horford in which the team went 4-5. They’re part of the game, but the Celts have had enough games missed out of crucial players for it play into the equation.

Thomas is averaging 28.1 points, 6.7 assists and 2.8 rebounds per game on 48.4% effective shooting. His usage percentage is a by and far career high 33.4%. How the Celts will muster up points in his absence will be intriguing to watch for, but with their half court effectiveness offensively to this point the 10-12 Magic should not be an opponent to lose to even in his absence.