Look at that header image, two good teams diving all over each other for the ball, the win, the top spot — it’s a work of art. The Raptors and Celtics play again tonight, many moons after their last confrontation (on Nov. 12; we were so young then). We’ve been waiting awhile for the rematch.
The story of Boston at that previous time was one of success. The Celtics were in the midst of a 16-game win streak, the Raptors just another speed bump along the way. Boosted by such a run, Boston has enjoyed the entire 2017-18 season to date from atop the Eastern Conference. They’ve lost games, of course, lost players due to injury, come back to Earth in some ways, but still they remain: 39-15, first place.
The Raptors, meanwhile, have gradually found their level. The starting lineup has changed since November 12, the rotation, expanded as it is, has slotted into place for the regular season, and the wins... they’ve kept coming. Toronto is in second with a 36-16 record. But I don’t have to tell you that.
The big news for the day is this: Kyrie Irving, the Celtics’ leader, is back in the lineup tonight after missing three games. He missed the previous matchup with Toronto as well. He’s been Boston’s powerhouse for the season, and it’ll fall to Kyle Lowry (post-Super Bowl celebration), plus Delon Wright, Fred VanVleet (and maybe Norman Powell?) to slow him down.
That’s a tall order. But that’s why we watch.
Here’s this morning’s Raptors-Celtics preview from John Gaudes. Now, your updated details.
Where to Watch
TSN 1/4, 7:30 PM ET
Lineups
Toronto - Kyle Lowry, DeMar DeRozan, OG Anunoby, Serge Ibaka, Jonas Valanciunas
Boston - Kyrie Irving, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, Al Horford, Aron Baynes
Injuries
Toronto - none
Boston - Gordon Hayward, Shane Larkin, Marcus Smart
#NEBHInjuryReport: Kyrie Irving and Marcus Morris are expected to play tonight against Toronto, according to Brad Stevens.
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) February 6, 2018
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Raptors vs Garbage team in green preview with Sean Woodley and Dan Reynolds. Ask questions in the comments!
Posted by Raptors HQ on Tuesday, February 6, 2018