Joe Mazzulla wasn’t particularly chatty when asked about the updates to key players, Jaylen Brown and Luke Kornet, ahead of the Nets clash. Boston did not have to worry too much about injuries last season – a crucial factor that helped them maintain their championship caliber throughout. However, this time, they already have a few bumps and bruises early in the season.

JB, for his part, has missed the past three games. A left hip flexor strain ensured he was out of the lineup for the fourth straight matchup. As for Kornet, the big tweaked his hamstring in Wednesday’s loss to the Golden State Warriors, effectively being dubbed ‘Questionable’. before confirming as ‘Out’.

As things stand, what did the Cs’ coach have to say? About Brown: “He’s doing good. It’s day-to-day. Just working at it. Getting better. Getting a little bit better each day. Getting there.” 

When another reporter asked if the reigning Finals MVP had any additional imaging done, Coach Mazzulla replied, “None at all.” As simple as that.

And here’s what he said about Kornet: “Just day-to-day. Like the rest of us.”

While it isn’t exactly as informative as we would have perhaps liked, the one good takeaway is that the team isn’t too worried about these two. So, it would be safe to assume that the injury isn’t too serious, particularly in the case of Brown. Luke Kornet, if there aren’t any setbacks, could likely get back on court against the Bucks on Sunday.

For now, though, the Celtics will have to find a way to adapt against a surprisingly efficient Nets team tonight quickly.

Can Joe Mazzulla & Co. hold the fort down without Jaylen Brown?

The Cs are off to a blazing start this season, too. Although they would love to have JB on the court, the team does have the luxury of taking it easy with the 28-year-old. Brown hasn’t quite looked like himself lately, and with him now on the injury report, it’s becoming clearer why. This season, he’s been uncharacteristically inefficient, a far cry from the high-powered scorer Celtics fans are used to.

It’s possible his hip issue is taking a toll, affecting everything from his explosive drives to his defensive intensity. Given Boston’s depth with Jayson Tatum, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard stepping up on offense, there’s no need to rush Brown back. A fully healthy return is the priority, not only for him but for the team’s bigger picture.

This cautious approach is the same one they’re applying to Kristaps Porziņģis, who isn’t likely to suit up until December. While rushing players back can be a tempting shortcut, the truth is that the Celtics don’t need it. They’re more focused on getting everyone to full strength—because a fully loaded Boston squad could be a true force to reckon with later on.