David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Marcus Smart and Aaron Nesmith Questionable for Celtics vs. Trail Blazers
On the eve of their home game against the Portland Trail Blazers, the Boston Celtics latest injury report lists Aaron Nesmith and Marcus Smart as questionable for Friday's matchup.
Smart's been out since sustaining a right thigh contusion during last Monday's win against the Indiana Pacers when he took a knee to the afflicted area from Domantas Sabonis while fighting over a screen from the All-Star big man.
Three days later, Smart's thigh contusion no longer was mentioned on Boston's injury report, but in its place was the announcement he'd entered health and safety protocols. Smart has since exited from there, but he needs time to rebuild his stamina as he prepares to return to the hardwood.
As for Nesmith, in the fourth quarter of the Celtics' win over the New Orleans Pelicans on MLK Day, he sprained his right ankle when it rolled as he landed after going up for a rebound.
The energy and intensity he provided off the bench that game earned him 19 minutes of playing time, in which he scored five points, grabbed six rebounds, and earned a plus-minus rating of +16. Unfortunately, the injury kept Nesmith from building off that momentum, as he had to sit out Wednesday's loss to the Charlotte Hornets.
Robert Williams has missed Boston's last two games for a far more joyous reason, the birth of his child, which happened on Monday.
When speaking with the media following Tuesday's practice, Ime Udoka said Williams' return would happen on his time.
Williams is not on the injury report, but he may not return until the Celtics take on the Wizards in D.C. Sunday, though it seems more likely he plays on Friday against the Trail Blazers.
Tip-off between the Celtics and Trail Blazers is at 7:30 EST. Inside The Celtics will have content related to the game coming out before, during, and after. And follow @BobbyKrivitsky on Twitter for updates and analysis from pregame to post.
Further Reading
What Stood Out in Celtics' Loss vs. Hornets: Boston Outclassed at Home
Celtics Reportedly Exploring Trading Al Horford
Report Links Celtics to Jerami Grant
Film Room: Celtics' Ball Movement at Its Best in Win vs. Bulls
Should Jaylen Brown be the Celtics' Closer?
