Celtics' Luke Kornet sidelined for Game 1 versus Heat

In Sunday's Game 1 of the first-round series between the Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat, Celtics reserve center Luke Kornet will be sidelined due to a strained right calf. According to Boston coach Joe Mazzulla, Kornet reported tightness during a practice session on Saturday. His condition will be reassessed periodically, with Mazzulla describing his status as "week-to-week."

With Kornet unavailable, Xavier Tillman is expected to fill in as the third-string center for Boston, particularly in situations where his strength could be advantageous against frontcourt mismatches. Kornet's absence may not lead to significant rotational changes, considering his limited playing time in postseason appearances last year, averaging only 2.1 points and 1.3 rebounds in 4.0 minutes per game.

The Celtics will lean on Kristaps Porzingis, though injury-prone. Al Horford, an experienced power forward, can step in at center. Crucially, they must contain Bam Adebayo to secure scoring opportunities, pivotal for seizing control in the center position.

Meanwhile, the Miami Heat will have guard Duncan Robinson available despite his recent back issues, which restricted him to just 12 minutes of play in their play-in game against Chicago. However, Miami will miss the services of Jimmy Butler due to a right knee injury and Terry Rozier due to a neck issue.


Source CBS Sports : Celtics' Luke Kornet: Set for multi-game absence
Source Sportsnet : Celtics center Luke Kornet out for Game 1 against Heat