The Boston Celtics announced on Monday that Jrue Holiday will remain sidelined for Game 5 when they host the Orlando Magic. The defending champions will have their first of three opportunities to eliminate the Magic on Tuesday as Jayson Tatum and company currently hold a 3-1 series lead.
However, the task won't be easy as the Celtics will once again be without Holiday. The veteran guard continues to recover from a right hamstring strain, an injury that has already kept him out of the past two games.
The Celtics are well aware that Holiday’s absence weakens their lineup and gives the Magic greater hope of forcing a comeback. As Derrick White pointed out, every player on the roster must step up and shoulder additional responsibility to help fill the void left by Holiday.
"Obviously you can’t replace what Jrue Holiday brings on both sides of the ball," White said before Game 4. "Everybody kind of has a little bit different role and responsibility on both sides. Jrue is a special player and obviously we’re a better team with him but everybody just has to take a step up when he’s not out there."
In Jrue Holiday’s absence, coach Joe Mazzulla has turned to Al Horford to step into the starting lineup. Horford has risen to the occasion, delivering a strong performance, particularly in Game 4, where the veteran forward tallied six points and an impressive five blocks.
The Orlando Magic vs. Boston Celtics game will take place on Tuesday, April 29, at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. Tip off is slated for 8:30 p.m. EST (5:30 p.m. PT).
The Celtics vs. Magic game will be broadcast live on NBA TV, NBCS-BOS (local) and FDSFL (local). Fans will have the option to stream the game live on the NBA League Pass and Fubo TV app and website (regional restrictions may apply).