The stage is set for a blockbuster NBA clash this Wednesday evening as two of the league's most formidable teams, the Boston Celtics and the Denver Nuggets, prepare for a high-octane battle. This marquee matchup promises to be a nail-biter, tipping off at 7:00 pm ET on January 7, 2026, at the iconic TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts.
When and Where to Catch the Action
Fans across the globe can tune in to watch this epic contest. The game will be televised live on NBCS-BOS, ALT, KTVD, and ESPN. For those preferring online streams, the match will be available on Fubo and Prime Video, ensuring no one misses a moment of the action.
Team Form and Starting Lineups
The season records highlight just how close this game could be. The Denver Nuggets have edged slightly ahead with 24 wins, while the Boston Celtics are hot on their heels with 23 victories. Both squads have displayed exceptional consistency, making the outcome highly unpredictable.
The expected starting lineups reflect the depth of both teams, albeit impacted by injuries. For the Celtics, the court is likely to be led by Payton Pritchard at point guard, Derrick White at shooting guard, Jaylen Brown at small forward, Sam Hauser at power forward, and Neemias Queta at center.
The Nuggets, facing a significant injury crisis, are projected to start with a lineup featuring Curtis Jones at point guard, Bruce Brown at shooting guard, Peyton Watson at power forward, and DaRon Holmes II and Zeke Nnaji handling center duties.
Injury Report: A Major Factor
The injury list could be the decisive factor in tonight's game. The Boston Celtics will be severely hampered by the absence of their superstar, Jayson Tatum (OUT - ACL), alongside Josh Minott (OUT - ankle). Ron Harper Jr. is listed as QUESTIONABLE with a calf issue.
The Denver Nuggets' situation is even more dire. They will be without their cornerstone, Nikola Jokic (OUT - knee), as well as key players Jonas Valanciunas, Cameron Johnson, and Tamar Bates. A host of others, including Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Jalen Pickett, are all marked as QUESTIONABLE with various ailments.
Game Prediction and Key Players
Despite the absences, this game is expected to be an offensive spectacle. The prediction leans towards a high-scoring affair, with the combined total score projected to exceed 232.5 points. This trend has been consistent in Nuggets games this season.
For the Celtics, the onus will be on Jaylen Brown, who has been phenomenal, averaging 29.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game. Derrick White's contribution, averaging 18.4 points, will also be crucial in filling the void left by Tatum.
The Nuggets will rely heavily on the firepower of Jamal Murray, if he plays, who averages 25.4 points and 7.2 assists. The performance of role players like Peyton Watson and Bruce Brown will be vital to keeping Denver competitive against a strong Celtics side at home. The sheer volume of injuries for Denver, however, gives the Boston Celtics a slight edge in this tightly contested matchup.
