The Boston Celtics' challenge entering Game 3 against the Orlando Magic is steepening. It's hard enough to, at a minimum, match the energy of a desperate team down 2-0 and playing at home for the first time this postseason.
But in a physical series that, at times, perhaps, crosses the line, Jayson Tatum missed Game 2 of this series. That stems from a flagrant foul from Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who grabbed Tatum's wrist while trying to protect the rim as the latter elevated for a dunk attempt.
Al Horford made it clear he took exception to the play. It's one resulting in a severe bone bruise for Tatum that has him doubtful for Game 3 and leaves his status for the series uncertain.
Jrue Holiday is also listed on Boston's injury. The 34-year-old guard is dealing with a right hamstring strain. He logged 36 minutes and contributed 11 points, six rebounds, and four assists in the Celtics' 109-100 win over the Magic in Game 2.
Now Jaylen Brown joins them on the injury report in a concerning development for the NBA's reigning champions.
Brown, the hero of Game 2 for Boston, delivered a game-high 36 points, plus 10 rebounds and five assists, in Wednesday's win at TD Garden. Despite dealing with right knee posterior impingement, he logged 42 minutes, shouldering a more taxing workload without Tatum.
As the Celtics prepare for potentially playing without three starters in Game 3, Al Horford discussed their familiarity with operating short-handed and how it has sharpened them for this scenario.
"It's been helpful throughout the season," said Horford. "You always want to have a full[y] healthy team, but we've had to deal with this kind of all season, and because of that, some of our other guys have gotten opportunities.
"And it's no different -- our guys stay ready, we're preparing for it. Whether it's Sam Hauser coming off the bench and having an impact, Luke [Kornet], Baylor [Scheierman], [or] whoever it is, we just have to stay ready at any moment. That's what we did all season, and we'll see what happens tonight. If that's what needs to be done, then I know our guys will be ready, and if not, we'll get rolling like we normally do."
Horford's preparation doesn't change when his role does
As potent as Boston's double-big lineup combinations are, the acquisition of Kristaps Porzingis meant Horford had to embrace a role off the bench. The former's injuries have often allowed the latter to continue his preferred role.
However, as Horford discussed at shoot around at the Kia Center before Game 3, while he's fluctuated between the first and second units, it hasn't dictated or altered his preparation.
"My preparation, it stays the same," stated Horford. "Being consistent in my work and the things that I need to do and make sure that I impact winning. That's always my focus."
With the Celtics again preparing for the prospect of taking the floor without multiple starters, they'll continue leaning on the team's elder statesman as they aim for a commanding 3-0 series lead.