The Celtics are coming off an impressive overtime victory over the Timberwolves as they erased a nine-point deficit near the end of regulation. Now, they face a Bucks squad that’s been reeling of late, dropping four of their last five games. But Milwaukee is still second in the East at 25-12, though the 29-8 Celtics currently have a four-game lead in the standings.
Thursday’s game is also the first time Jrue Holiday will be back in Milwaukee for a game since he was traded right before training camp. Holiday was set to begin another season with the Bucks, but the organization decided to trade for Damian Lillard in a blockbuster deal. The Blazers then sent Holiday to the Celtics in a deal as Boston is now arguably the most talented team in the league.
The first time these two teams met in Boston, the Celtics won in a 119-116 game. The C’s controlled most of the game, but the Bucks had a furious rally at the end of the game to make the score close. While the C’s have some cushion in the standings, the Bucks figure to be their biggest rival in the conference, so each game is important.
The Celtics continue a tough portion of their schedule as they face the Bucks at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, but they will be at nearly full strength. The lone player listed on the injury report is big man Al Horford, who’s out because of a non-COVID illness.