NBA Playoffs: Toronto Raptors vs Boston Celtics Game 6 Injury Update, Lineup and Predictions

Is time up for the defending NBA champions? The Toronto Raptors looked alive in Games 3 and 4 but the Boston Celtics didn’t let that last very long. Celtics managed to take over game 5 entirely and have taken the lead in the playoff series by 3-2. They will certainly be aiming to finish off with the Raptors by Game 6 itself and advance to the Eastern Conference Finals. But, what we all know is that the Raptors can make anything happen. They even revived from a 2-0 deficit and have all the potential to bring this to a tie.

Toronto Raptors injury update and lineup prediction

The energy that the Raptors had in Game 4 seems to have gone for a walk in the park. The biggest issue during the last game was that a sense of urgency was missing and by the time the game reached the second half, it was already over for them. However, their mature players are not one to be rattled by the scoreline.

At this stage, if their offense improves then the Raptors can turn this around. They have been atrocious shooting from the arc and key players like Kyle Lowry and Pascal Siakam can’t be contributing less than 25 points. Pascal has been lagging behind the entire series but coach Nick Nurse has no alternative but to rely on him. On the other hand, a huge setback could be in place for them. A player who has stood out for them this series is not sure if he will be able to play the elimination game. Serge Ibaka twisted his ankle during game 5 and has been listed as probable.

As of now, the predicted lineup would be, Kyle Lowry, Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, Pascal Siakam, and Marc Gasol.

Boston Celtics injury update and lineup prediction

The Celtics team has been the only team that has beaten the Raptors since the season resumed. And it looks like they have no intention of changing that. Their defense was absolutely tremendous, all thanks to Marcus Smart. Not only that, but even their aggression towards the offense has also baffled the Raptors constantly.

Without a doubt, Jaylen Brown is their star and his ability to get a basket from anywhere on the court should really worry the Raptors. His chemistry with Jayson Tatum has played out well and six of their players were able to bag double digits last game. Having lost some of their stars to injuries, like Gordon Hayward (ankle) and Javonte Green (knee), could be some what disadvantageous. Center Vincent Poirier is still listed out due to person reasons.

Keeping that in mind, the predicted lineup would be Kemba Walker, Marcus Smart, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, and Daniel Theis.

Game predictions

Yes, the Raptors had gathered great momentum after two games but Celtics are clearly the more stable team. It is their consistency that is more likely to help them cross the finish line for this round.