Celtics Center Fractures Hand, Out for Bucks Game
Celtics rookie center Amari Williams is set to miss at least one game due to a hairline fracture in his right hand. The Boston Celtics have announced that Williams will not participate in the upcoming road game against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Injury Updates on Celtics Players
Alongside Williams, several other players are out for the game, including:
- Chris Boucher (illness)
- Ron Harper Jr. (right knee sprain)
- Jayson Tatum (Achilles recovery)
Amari Williams’ Performance
Williams, drafted in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft, had recently earned significant playing time. He filled in for injured starter Neemias Queta during a pivotal win against the Detroit Pistons on November 26. In that game, he logged 15 minutes of action.
Just four days later, he played six minutes in another victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he notably contested a crucial last-second shot.
Impact on the Team
With his absence, the Celtics will face challenges in the frontcourt, particularly due to the lack of size. Williams and Queta are the only 7-foot players on the roster.
Head coach Joe Mazzulla has recently opted for smaller lineups. He frequently positions players like 6-foot-8 Josh Minott at center when Queta is off the court. Luka Garza and Xavier Tillman have also seen limited action, with Garza primarily appearing in garbage time.
Team Strategy Moving Forward
Payton Pritchard emphasized the need for adaptability, stating, “We’re going to have to go small ball and learn how to play. But it’s been effective.” The Celtics will need to find innovative ways to maneuver through the lineup adjustments due to these injuries.
As they prepare for the matchup against the Bucks, the team is focusing on maintaining effectiveness despite the ongoing roster challenges.
