Celtics miss Tatum and White in Oklahoma City; roster updates on Gonzalez, Brown, Harper
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The Boston Celtics played Thursday night in Oklahoma City without two starters, ruling out Jayson Tatum for right Achilles injury management and Derrick White with a right knee contusion.
Tatum’s absence was his first since making his season debut on March 6. Over his initial three outings, the All-NBA forward has averaged 19.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.0 steal in 27.0 minutes per game. Head coach Joe Mazzulla said the night off was built into the recovery plan, stressing trust in the club’s sports-science and medical staffs. Boston’s next contest is Saturday at home against Washington.
Additional Celtics notes
John Hollinger’s observations: Writing for The Athletic, Hollinger reported no visible physical issues in Tatum’s first two games and noted that, with the team already performing at a high level, Boston does not need a peak version of the star forward to pursue a deep postseason run.
Rookie Hugo Gonzalez: Hollinger also highlighted the 20-year-old wing’s high-level defense and strong rebounding. Gonzalez brings energy and finishes well in transition, though his perimeter shooting and ball-handling remain works in progress. Hollinger pointed to Boston’s recent developmental success as a reason the Spaniard is in an ideal environment.
Jaylen Brown on 2019 trade thoughts: During an appearance on the “Cousins” podcast with Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, Brown revealed he considered requesting a trade after Boston’s 2019 second-round playoff exit. McGrady persuaded him to stay, telling Brown the Celtics would eventually become his team.
Ron Harper Jr.’s contract status: In a MassLive mailbag, Brian Robb wrote that Harper is expected to have his two-way deal converted to a standard contract on the regular season’s final day, April 12. The forward recorded a career-best 22 points on 8-of-11 shooting in 33 minutes during Tuesday’s loss at San Antonio and has earned praise for his defense.
Source: Hoops Rumors
