Boston Celtics vs Denver Nuggets injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (February 25, 2026)

The Boston Celtics play the Denver Nuggets on February 25, 2026, at Ball Arena. Both teams are in the playoff race, so this game matters for seeding.Boston is near the top in the East, while Denver is holding a strong position in the West. Injuries on both sides will have a direct impact on how this game plays out.Jayson Tatum is out with an Achilles injury. That leaves Boston without its main scorer.Jaylen Brown is available after dealing with a right knee contusion in the last game. He is expected to take on a bigger role. Derrick White will also have more responsibility, especially in handling the ball and creating shots.Boston will need production from multiple players to make up for Tatum’s absence.Denver Nuggets are missing several players. Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson are both out with hamstring injuries. Jalen Pickett is out with a knee issue, and Tamar Bates is sidelined with a foot injury.Jamal Murray is a game-time decision because of a hamstring problem. Julian Strawther is listed as questionable with a toe injury.These absences reduce Denver’s depth, especially on the wings.Boston is expected to start Derrick White and Baylor Scheierman in the backcourt, with Jaylen Brown on the wing. Nikola Vucevic will handle duties in the frontcourt.Denver is expected to start Nikola Jokic at center. If Jamal Murray plays, he will start at point guard. Christian Braun, Cameron Johnson, and Jonas Valanciunas are expected to fill the remaining spots.Denver has won the only meeting between the two teams this season, giving them a 1-0 edge. Over the last three years, the teams are tied 2-2.Boston still leads the all-time regular-season record 62-41.Boston allows the fewest points per game in the league. Denver scores efficiently and shoots well from three.Nikola Jokic against Nikola Vucevic is the main matchup inside. Jokic creates chances for teammates, while Vucevic focuses on scoring.Derrick White will have an important role on defense and in attack, especially if Jamal Murray plays.Boston’s defense gives them a chance even without Tatum. Denver has the advantage at home and still has Jokic.This should be a close game with a slower pace. The total is likely to stay under 225 points.