Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

With only eight regular-season matchups remaining, the top-seeded Boston Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and their squad, continue to assert their dominance in the Eastern Conference. They appear poised to challenge the defending NBA champions, the Denver Nuggets, in a potential seven-game series showdown.

Having already secured a playoff berth and maintaining their position atop the East, the Celtics are keen on sustaining their momentum as they head towards the NBA playoffs. Their recent form underscores their determination, having clinched victory in eight of their last ten outings.

However, the team faces a setback as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season. Jaylen Brown, a linchpin in their lineup, is sidelined due to a hand injury.

Noa Dalzell of SB Nation reports that Brown will sit out Monday’s game against the Charlotte Hornets, as per Legion Hoops.

Brown’s absence is worrisome, given his significant contributions to the team’s success this season. With the playoffs looming and the first round set to commence on April 20, the Celtics are eager to have all their key players fit and ready for action.

Currently averaging 23.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, Brown has been a standout performer, boasting career-high shooting percentages of 50.2% from the field and 35.8% from three-point range.

Should Jaylen Brown’s injury persist into the postseason, the Boston Celtics may find themselves in a precarious position, with formidable opponents like the Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks, and Miami Heat sensing an opportunity to capitalize on any vulnerability.

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