The Boston Celtics enter Monday night's matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans still searching for their first win this season. After a 119-113 loss against the Detroit Pistons in the Motor City on Sunday, there were questions about Jaylen Brown's availability in "The Big Easy."
The four-time All-Star, who is dealing with a hamstring strain, logged 35 minutes at Little Caesars Arena. He registered a game-high 41 points, snagged six rebounds, and distributed four assists, tying Payton Pritchard for the most on Boston.
When asked about his hamstring after the loss, the 2024 NBA Finals MVP conveyed, "It was all right. It was a little tight today, I think just taking some smaller steps, but going into the back-to-back, we got to figure out how to get one game," he expressed. "So, I'm just doing everything I possibly can to be as ready as possible. That's the key. I think I just want to be on the floor every night, if I can be. So, we got a back-to-back first, back-to-back of the year. I'm looking forward to it."
Still, as Brown has repeatedly noted, the first two weeks after a hamstring strain come with the highest risk of reinjury. So, while he got the green light to play in the second half of Boston's back-to-back, and it's commendable that he wants to be available for his team, there is a risk attached to pushing himself like this within those two weeks.
Pelicans down a star on Monday
While the Celtics will have Brown in the lineup, the Pelicans are without Zion Williamson. The latter is dealing with a left foot bone contusion.
The two-time All-Star has produced 27 points in each of New Orleans' first two games. He almost had a triple-double in Friday's 120-116 overtime loss to the San Antonio Spurs. Williamson also registered 10 rebounds, including five at the offensive end, seven assists, and three steals.
Like the Celtics, the Pelicans, 0-2, are still searching for their first victory of the season. Not having their best player on the floor is, of course, a significant blow to getting into the win column for the first time on Monday.
They will, however, have starting center Yves Missi back in the lineup. He missed the game against the Spurs on Friday due to an ankle sprain. However, after being a full participant at Sunday's practice, he is cleared to return.
Monday night's matchup between the Celtics and Pelicans is scheduled to tip off at 8:00 EST at the Smoothie King Center.