Overview
- The Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics, both top-two teams in their conferences, meet for their second matchup of the season at TD Garden.
- LeBron James (foot injury management) and Luka Doncic (knee contusion) are listed as probable but are expected to play in this highly anticipated game.
- Boston's Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are cleared to play, but Kristaps Porzingis remains sidelined due to illness.
- The Lakers enter the game on an eight-game winning streak, bolstered by strong defensive performances and the recent acquisition of Luka Doncic.
- The Celtics, riding a three-game win streak, aim to defend their championship status with contributions from their deep roster and standout performances by Jayson Tatum.