The stage is set for a high-stakes NBA encounter tonight as the Boston Celtics prepare to host the Indiana Pacers at the TD Garden. This regular-season game, scheduled for December 22, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET, comes with significant playoff implications for both teams. The Pacers are desperate to snap a four-game losing streak, while the Celtics aim to continue their strong form, having secured seven victories in their last nine outings.
Boston Celtics: Injury Woes and Predicted Lineup
The Celtics are riding high after a commanding 112-96 victory over the Toronto Raptors this past Saturday. However, their campaign faces a major hurdle with the confirmed absence of their superstar, Jayson Tatum, who is out with an Achilles injury. This is a substantial blow to the team's offensive firepower.
The injury report for Boston presents a mixed picture. Alongside Tatum, players like Ron Harper Jr., Max Shulga, and Amari Williams are listed as OUT due to G-League assignments. The availability of key wing Jaylen Brown remains uncertain as he is marked QUESTIONABLE due to illness. Jordan Walsh also shares the same questionable status.
With these absences, the predicted starting five for the Celtics is expected to see significant adjustments. The backcourt will likely be anchored by Payton Pritchard at point guard and Derrick White at shooting guard. The frontcourt duties are projected to fall to Neemias Queta at center, Hugo Gonzalez at small forward, and Sam Hauser at power forward.
Indiana Pacers: A Season Marred by Absences
The Indiana Pacers' season has been challenging, largely due to the long-term loss of their floor general, Tyrese Haliburton. The guard has been ruled out for the entire 2025-26 season after suffering an Achilles injury during Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. His absence has left a massive void in the team's playmaking.
The Pacers' injury list for tonight's game is lengthy and concerning. Key players like Aaron Nesmith (knee), Obi Toppin (foot), and Ben Sheppard (calf) are all confirmed OUT. The status of T.J. McConnell (knee), Kam Jones (G League), and Johnny Furphy (ankle) is up in the air, as they are marked QUESTIONABLE. Only Taelon Peter, on a G-League assignment, is listed as PROBABLE.
Given these constraints, the Pacers' predicted starting lineup is set for a reshuffle. Andrew Nembhard is expected to take the reins at point guard, with Bennedict Mathurin and Pascal Siakam featuring as the forwards. The center position might see a dual setup with Jay Huff and Isaiah Jackson starting together to bolster their presence in the paint against Boston.
Game Details and What to Expect
This matchup promises to be a tactical battle defined by which team can best adapt to its missing stars. The Celtics, despite Tatum's absence, have shown depth and resilience. Players like Pritchard and White will need to step up offensively and defensively to control the game's tempo.
For the Pacers, ending their losing streak in Boston's fortress will be a herculean task. The performance of Siakam and Mathurin will be critical in generating scoring opportunities. The battle in the paint between Queta, Huff, and Jackson could be a decisive factor in the game's outcome.
Fans can catch all the action live from TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts, streaming on NBC/Peacock. With both teams navigating significant injury crises, this game will test the depth and strategy of each roster, making it a must-watch for NBA enthusiasts.
