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Summary:

The Portland Trail Blazers, struggling with injuries and a losing streak, face a tough challenge against the Boston Celtics in a Sunday afternoon game. The Celtics, despite being without Jayson Tatum, are on a winning streak and boast a potent offense fueled by 3-point shooting. The game marks the return of former Blazer Anfernee Simons to Portland in a Celtics uniform. Robert Williams III will sit out to be available for tomorrow’s game against Dallas, potentially giving rookie Yang Hansen more playing time. A key to the game will be whether the Blazers can contain Boston’s 3-point barrage, especially with Jaylen Brown on a record-breaking scoring streak.

News Article:

Blazers Face Uphill Battle Against Surging Celtics in Sunday Matinee

Portland, OR – The Portland Trail Blazers (12-19), mired in a three-game losing streak, face a formidable opponent in the Boston Celtics (19-11) this afternoon at the Moda Center. The Blazers, struggling with a lengthy injury list including Scoot Henderson, Jrue Holiday, Damian Lillard, Matisse Thybulle, Blake Wesley, Jerami Grant, Robert Williams, Javonte Cooke, are looking to avoid a winless five-game homestand.

The Celtics, despite missing superstar Jayson Tatum (torn Achilles), enter the game riding a four-game winning streak and are powered by a high-volume, high-efficiency 3-point attack. A particular threat is Jaylen Brown, who is chasing Celtics history with an eight-game streak of scoring 30+ points.

The game will also see the return of Anfernee Simons to Portland, now playing for the Celtics after being traded in the offseason. Simons, a fan favorite during his seven seasons in Portland, is now a key bench contributor for Boston.

With Robert Williams III sitting out to be available for Dallas game, rookie Yang Hansen may get extended playing time at center for the Blazers, offering a potential spark off the bench.

The Blazers’ ability to defend the 3-point line will be critical in attempting to upset the Celtics. The game is scheduled for 3:00 PM Pacific and will be broadcast on the Rip City Television Network and streamed on BlazerVision in Oregon and Washington, and League Pass everywhere else.

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