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The shorthanded Boston Celtics will be even more shorthanded as they take on the Cleveland Cavaliers tomorrow night in Cleveland.
#NEBHInjuryReport for tomorrow vs Cleveland:
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) March 25, 2019
Kyrie Irving (load management) - OUT
Al Horford (left knee soreness) - QUESTIONABLE
Jayson Tatum (right low back contusion) - QUESTIONABLE
Robert Williams (low back contusion) - DOUBTFUL
Kyrie Irving had previously mentioned that he was going to prioritize rest down the stretch of the regular season, and the time has come for his own version of the fabled “load management” that has plagued many a Western Conference team this season.
Irving has repeatedly stressed that he’s taking a long-term view toward this season. What matters is the playoffs, and missing a game or two to get right and get rested isn’t an issue. It’s interesting that it just so happens to come against the Cleveland Cavaliers given Irving’s comments after last night’s loss:
Kyrie Irving asked if it still means something to go back to Cleveland: “No, not at all.”
— Jared Weiss (@JaredWeissNBA) March 25, 2019
Boston was fortunate to get Aron Baynes back in such short order after what was deemed a Grade 2 ankle sprain, but Al Horford (knee) and Jayson Tatum (back) both remain questionable. Odds are that Robert Williams will remain out tomorrow night, given his doubtful status. With the focus shifting toward the playoffs, it might be better for both to sit this one out. We’ll know more as the game approaches.