Thu Mar 13 00:30:00 UTC 2025: **Celtics Face Shorthanded Rematch Against Thunder; Porzingis Remains Out**

BOSTON, MA – The Boston Celtics are set to face a tough challenge on Wednesday night when they host the Oklahoma City Thunder at TD Garden, but they’ll likely do so without a key player. The reigning champions are expected to be shorthanded for the rematch, with center Kristaps Porzingis remaining sidelined due to a persistent viral illness. This will mark his seventh consecutive game missed. Porzingis himself confirmed the illness on social media, stating he is recovering but not yet at full strength.

While Porzingis’ status is questionable, both Jayson Tatum (right knee tendinopathy) and Jaylen Brown (right knee posterior impingement) are expected to play. Brown suited up for Monday’s win against the Utah Jazz, while Tatum sat out. Their availability offers a degree of relief to the Celtics, who are facing a Thunder team boasting a stellar 53-12 record this season.

The Celtics will be eager for revenge after suffering a lopsided defeat to the Thunder in January, where they managed only 27 points in the second half. The upcoming game presents a significant test for the Celtics, as they aim to overcome their injury concerns and defeat a strong young Thunder team vying for a playoff spot.

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