Recent Jrue Holiday Injury Update is Concerning

Mallet finger can take 4-8 weeks to recover fully, however, it’s possible Holiday could return earlier, just not at full strength. Lu Dort didn’t miss time from this same injury earlier, however, he may have had a less severe mallet finger. Moreover, Dort shot 3 for 26 from the field and 2 for 17 in the four games following his return. A lingering finger injury could be challenging to deal with and specifically harm Holiday’s shot. Brian Sutterer noted that bone-breaking is much better than tendon-breaking, which gives Holiday a chance to return sooner.

Holiday’s Impact

Holiday is having somewhat of a down season at 34. He is averaging 10.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists on 43.8/34.2/90 shooting splits. Holiday is also shooting below 30 percent on corner threes, his decline as a shooter is most notable and concerning. Since he already was struggling to shoot, it’s fair to be concerned about this injury. Holiday has also missed time due to a shoulder injury at various points throughout the season including the four games leading up to the All-Star break. A combination of a shoulder and finger injury is concerning for Holiday’s jump shot.

Nevertheless, Holiday provides the Celtics with a ton of all-around value as a versatile defender, rebounder, and connective playmaker. Holiday’s defense is key to the Celtics’ defensive identity and starting lineup of five elite defenders. Furthermore, Holiday can guard positions one through five, allowing Boston to run a highly versatile defensive scheme. Holiday was sorely missed in the Celtics’ narrow defeat against the Cleveland Cavaliers, and their defense notably struggled. The 15-year veteran’s playoff experience is also valuable to the Celtics. While it’s unclear how long Holiday will be out, the Celtics will count on Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, and Sam Hauser to step up in his absence. It’s also possible the Celtics will deploy more double-big lineups without Holiday. Ultimately, ensuring that Holiday is fully healthy once the playoffs roll around is crucial for the Celtics and their quest to repeat as champions.