A high-stakes NBA showdown is set for Saturday, January 10, 2026, as the San Antonio Spurs travel to TD Garden to battle the Boston Celtics. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET (Sunday early morning IST). This inter-conference duel features two powerhouse teams navigating significant injury challenges that are reshaping their strategies and rotations.
Team Standings and Season Context
The San Antonio Spurs arrive in Boston with an impressive 26-11 record, firmly holding the second spot in the competitive Western Conference. Their success this season is rooted in a high-paced offensive system and reliable output from their star players. In contrast, the Boston Celtics' campaign has been a story of adaptation. Faced with prolonged absences of key personnel, the Celtics have depended on their defensive grit, deep bench, and unexpected contributors stepping into larger roles.
Injury Report: Key Absences for Both Sides
The injury list will significantly impact tonight's tactics. The Spurs will once again be missing guard Devin Vassell, who is sidelined with a left adductor strain. His absence removes a crucial 15 points per game from the lineup, placing additional offensive responsibility on the shoulders of franchise cornerstone Victor Wembanyama. Forward Julian Champagnie is listed as questionable due to mid-back discomfort.
For the Celtics, the situation remains tough. Superstar Jayson Tatum continues his recovery from right Achilles repair surgery and will not play. The team also lists Josh Minott as questionable with a left ankle sprain, while Chris Boucher is out due to illness. These gaps have forced Boston to lean heavily on their remaining core scorers and role players to fill the void.
How to Watch: Broadcast Details for Indian Fans
For viewers in India, catching the live action is straightforward. The game will be broadcast nationally in the US on ESPN, and this feed is available internationally. Indian fans can tune in via NBA TV or use streaming services that offer live NBA coverage, such as NBA League Pass or the ESPN app. Radio listeners can follow the commentary on SiriusXM NBA Radio.
Statistical Breakdown and Players to Watch
The Spurs boast one of the league's most potent offenses, averaging 119.0 points per game. They complement this with strong rebounding, particularly on the offensive glass, and a fast tempo, especially in road games. Boston's statistics have been more fluid due to lineup instability, but their scoring typically hovers in the mid-110s.
All eyes will be on Victor Wembanyama. The Spurs' center is averaging a dominant 24 points and 11 rebounds and will be the focal point of San Antonio's attack. For the Celtics, Jaylen Brown has shouldered the scoring load, leading the team with 28.1 points per game. Derrick White's perimeter shooting and Payton Pritchard's scoring punch off the bench will be critical for Boston's chances.
Game Expectations and Betting Lines
Sportsbooks slightly favor the visiting Spurs, listing them as 1.5-point favorites. The total points over/under is set at 230.5, indicating expectations for a high-scoring affair. The key matchup will be San Antonio's offensive rebounding and transition speed against Boston's disciplined half-court defense. With both teams missing major pieces, the outcome will likely hinge on which team's role players execute better and which coach manages the rotational challenges more effectively.
This January clash is more than just a regular-season game; it's a test of depth and resilience for two teams with championship aspirations, making it a must-watch for NBA fans worldwide.
