Will Jayson Tatum Play Tonight? Boston Celtics vs New York Knicks: Injury Report, Predicted Lineups & Pick

It is a tale of contrasting fortunes. While the Boston Celtics have won 5 games on the trot, the New York Knicks have their own 5-game streak, but not one that they would be proud of. They will look to turn the tide with their last game on the road before moving to home comforts.

Date & Time: 16th January’21, 1:00pm EST

Venue: TD Garden, Boston

Preview | Boston Celtics

Jayson Tatum tested positive for COVID last Friday and is set to sit out this game in accordance with the league’s health and safety protocols. But he may return after this encounter.

Fortunately, the good news is that they still have enough firepower with as many as 10 players available. Jaylen Brown has been an absolute treat to watch this season. The highly underrated future All-Star is averaging a career-high 25.8 points at a proficient 53.7% shooting.

While Brad Stevens started Grant Williams in the win against the Magic, it is time to reinstate Daniel Theis into the starting lineup. They will only stay at the top of the table if they win. Otherwise, a loss will mean a relinquishment of the top spot to the Milwaukee Bucks.

Potential Starting 5 of the Boston Celtics

Guard – Jeff Teague

Guard – Marcus Smart

Center – Tristan Thompson

Forward – Daniel Theis

Forward – Jaylen Brown

Preview | New York Knicks

The Knicks looked like they may finally turn the tide around this season. Through the first 8 games, they had a 5-3 winning record and looked set to banish their Playoffs demons. But in typical Knicks fashion, they have since lost 5 games and ended in familiar territory.

Although the shining light for them has been Julius Randle, he may be joining their opponents on Sunday soon. He has been linked to a potential January trade to the Celtics.

Potential Starting 5 of the New York Knicks

Guard – Elfrid Payton

Guard – RJ Barrett

Center – Mitchell Robinson

Forward – Reggie Bullock

Forward – Julius Randle

Predictions | Celtics vs Knicks

Although the Celtics are a little short-handed because of the absence of Tatum, they have enough in the tank to overpower the NewYorkers. Rookie Payton Pritchard provides a spark off the bench that the Knicks don’t have.

It is hard to see any other winner of this encounter. The Big Green Machine is firing on all cylinders and the Knicks, well, still grapple with winning.