Boston Celtics: Kelly Olynyk will start in place of Amir Johnson in Game 4
The Boston Celtics will turn to Kelly Olynyk to start Game 4 in place of injured forward Amir Johnson. This will be Olynyk’s first playoff start.
The Boston Celtics will aim to build off their Game 3 momentum, where they came through with a 111-108 win, in Game 4 to even the series at 2-2. Kelly Olynyk will get the start today in place of an injured Amir Johnson.
The team is already without Isaiah Thomas, and things will get tougher with Amir Johnson out. Olynyk will be making his first career playoff start Tuesday night Brad Steven’s announced.
Amir Johnson was injured early in Game 3 and the shoulder issue seems to be keeping him out of the action tonight. Johnson did return in the 2nd half of that game, but he did not practice on Monday. He went through the pre-game shootaround today and the decision was made to give Johnson rest. It’s unclear whether or not he will be back to play in Game 5 back in Boston.
In the first three games of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Cavaliers, Johnson has just 4 points and 6 rebounds. Olynyk has fared much better and could be a spark in the lineup.
Kelly scored 15 points in Sunday’s win at Quicken Loans Arena. He’ll look to build off of the team, and his own, momentum.
More from Boston Celtics
- 3 Most Underpaid Celtics Heading Into the 2023 Season
- Blake Griffin Angling Hard to Re-Sign With Celtics
- Game-by-Game Predictions for the Celtics’ 2023-24 In-Season Tournament Schedule
- Kristaps Porzingis’ Foot Injury is a Problem Despite Celtics’ Optimism
- Marcus Smart, Grant Williams and Ime Udoka all Returning to Boston on 2023-24 Schedule
Jonas Jerebko will likely be in the rotation backing up Olynyk. He came up with a huge performance in Game 3.
Jerebko got the Celtics fired up after calling out Kevin Love for flopping.
It was the first time a Boston player actually got into it with the Cavaliers in the series. He also made his statistical presence felt. Jerebko went 4/4 shooting, including 2 huge three-pointers. He could be a key player again in Game 4.
Boston will look for Olynyk, Jerebko, and others to play the game of their lives. If Marcus Smart can keep up with his offensive hot streak, Boston will have a chance once again.
Next: Al Horford has an emotional side
Game 4 tips off at 8:30 PM on TNT. Let’s hope the series heads back to Boston all tied up at 2-2.