Celtics Center Suffers Hand Fracture Set to Miss Crucial Game Against Bucks
The Boston Celtics are facing a setback as rookie center Amari Williams has been diagnosed with a hairline fracture in his right hand. This injury will prevent him from participating in the upcoming game against the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday.
Injuries Impacting the Celtics
In addition to Williams, the Celtics will be without several key players. Chris Boucher is sidelined due to illness, while Ron Harper Jr. is dealing with a right knee sprain. Star forward Jayson Tatum is also out as he continues his rehabilitation from an Achilles injury.
Amari Williams’ Role and Performance
Williams, the second-round pick from the 2025 draft, made his NBA debut on November 26 against the Detroit Pistons when he stepped in for injured starter Neemias Queta. He contributed 15 minutes in that game and followed up with six minutes in a subsequent victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
- First game: November 26 vs. Detroit Pistons
- Minutes played: 15 minutes
- Second game: November 30 vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
- Minutes played: 6 minutes
In the game against the Cavaliers, Williams played a pivotal role, notably contesting a last-second shot that could have sent the game into overtime.
Current Team Dynamics
With Williams out, the Celtics’ frontcourt depth has taken a hit. He and Queta are the only two players standing at 7 feet on the roster. Head coach Joe Mazzulla has been adjusting the lineup and utilizing smaller lineups, often placing 6-foot-8 Josh Minott at center.
Recent Player Contributions
- Xavier Tillman: Limited to bench duties, has one notable start against Cleveland with:
- 9 points
- 6 rebounds
- 3 steals
- 1 block in 30 minutes
- Luka Garza: Primarily played in garbage time in the last five games.
Payton Pritchard emphasized the need for the team to adapt. “We’re going to have to play small ball and learn how to play. But it’s been effective,” he stated, reflecting on the current strategy without their 7-foot centers.
As the Celtics prepare for their matchup against the Bucks, they will need to find a way to compensate for the absence of their injured players and maintain their competitive edge.
