As we head closer to the playoffs, the Celtics look in no mood to give up their second seed in the East. They have been in incredible form recently and have won their last five games, increasing the gap between them and the third-seeded Knicks. And the Boston franchise aims to continue that momentum tonight as they face the Raptors. However, it could prove to be a tough challenge because they will be playing without their defensive anchor, Jrue Holiday.

Yes, Holiday will not suit up tonight. The reason? Resting for the first half of the Celtics’ back-to-back schedule. Well, Jrue just returned last week for the Sixers clash after sitting out four straight games with a hurt shoulder. And the team is being extremely cautious about the two-time champ’s health by giving him adequate rest so that he doesn’t re aggravate the injury.

His next chance to return to the lineup will be tomorrow as the Cs face the Pistons. Obviously, Jrue’s absence tonight will be a massive blow to the team because he has been in incredible form this season, averaging 11 points and nearly four assists. Moreover, he has been a defensive menace constantly guarding the best players and getting one steal per night.

Amid Holiday’s unavailability, Sam Hauser and Payton Pritchard are likely to see a significant increase in minutes. Of course, Hauser has done a solid job replacing Jrue in the starting lineup on previous occasions, averaging 7.6 points and three rebounds. Even Pritchard is having a career year, averaging 13.9 points and nearly four assists coming off the bench. So, the Celtics’ depth will come in handy as Holiday rests tonight. More so because several other stars might accompany him on the sidelines.

Al Horford and three other stars highlight Celtics’ Injury Report amid Jrue Holiday’s absence

While Jrue rests on the front end of the back-to-back, big man Luke Kornet is also out for tonight because of personal reasons. Although not as much as Holiday, but Kornet has had a significant impact on the team’s success, as he is averaging 5.2 points and five rebounds off the bench. So, his absence will leave a major void. Adding to the concerns, veteran Center Al Horford could also miss the game as he is questionable with a left toe sprain.

If he doesn’t suit up, the pressure to protect the paint will increase on Kristaps Porzingis. While Xavier Tillman and Neemias Queta are likely to be available to support him as they are listed as probable, both big men are dealing with lingering health issues, which means they might not be 100%. So, Porzingis could be in a rough spot as the only healthy big man available.

Sure, it’s only a game against East’s thirteenth seeded team. But the Celtics will be put to the test regardless because of their injury woes. Do you think they can keep their winning streak alive despite Holiday and other potential stars’ absence?