Boston Celtics Seek First Win Against Zion-Led Pelicans in Crucial Monday Night Matchup

The Boston Celtics face the New Orleans Pelicans tonight. This Monday night game tips off at 8 p.m. Eastern. Both teams are desperate for their first victory of the young season.

The Celtics are 0-3 after a tough opening stretch. The Pelicans also enter the game with an 0-2 record. Key players on both sides are battling injuries, making this a test of depth.

Injury Woes Plague Both Sides in Early Season Clash

According to ESPN, Celtics star Jaylen Brown is questionable for the game. He is listed for injury management. This places more pressure on Boston’s remaining rotation players.

Pelicans forward Zion Williamson is dealing with a foot issue. His status remains a game-time decision. The potential absence of both teams’ top scorers could lead to a defensive struggle.

Boston’s offense has struggled without its primary creators. The team ranks near the bottom in three-point percentage. Veterans like Derrick White must step up to provide scoring punch.

Betting Markets and Tactical Analysis Favor a Celtics Bounce-Back

DraftKings Sportsbook lists Boston as a slight 1.5-point favorite. The point total is set at 231.5. This suggests a close, moderately high-scoring game is expected.

The Celtics’ defense has been surprisingly stout inside. They have allowed the third-fewest points in the paint. This strength will be tested by Williamson’s relentless driving, if he plays.

Boston’s poor three-point shooting is unlikely to continue. Regression to the mean should see their percentages improve. This provides a clear path to victory against a Pelicans team that conceded many threes last season.

The Celtics have their best chance yet to secure that elusive first win. All signs point to their shooting slump ending soon. A victory against the Pelicans would provide a crucial morale boost for the struggling franchise.

Thought you’d like to know

What time is the Celtics vs. Pelicans game?

The game starts at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time. It will be played at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. National broadcast details are available on your local sports network.

Is Jayson Tatum playing against the Pelicans?

No, Jayson Tatum is not playing. He is expected to miss significant time with a serious injury. His absence is a major factor in the team’s slow start.

What is the Celtics’ current record?

The Boston Celtics are 0-3 to start the season. They have lost to Philadelphia, New York, and Detroit. They are one of the few winless teams remaining in the league.

Who is the favorite to win the game?

The Boston Celtics are slight 1.5-point favorites. This indicates oddsmakers believe they will win a close game. The moneyline also reflects their favored status.

Why are the Celtics struggling this season?

Injuries to key players are the primary cause. The team also lost depth due to offseason financial constraints. Integrating new roles has been a challenge.

Trusted Sources: ESPN, Associated Press, NBA Official Statistics, DraftKings Sportsbook