Celtics vs. Nets: A Clash in Brooklyn
The Boston Celtics (27-16) travel to Barclays Center to face the Brooklyn Nets (12-30) on Friday, December 23, 2026, at 7:30 pm ET. This regular season game (#44) marks the third of four meetings between these Eastern Conference rivals this season. The game will be broadcast on NBCSB, YES, and NBA-LP, and can also be heard on 98.5 The Sports Hub, 101.9 FM, and Sirius XM.
Recent History
The season series is currently tied 1-1. The Celtics secured a 113-99 victory in Brooklyn on November 18th, but the Nets responded with a 113-105 win in Boston on November 21st. The final matchup is scheduled for February 27th in Boston.
Team Breakdown
The Nets boast the youngest roster in the NBA, with an average age of 23.98. Last season, the Celtics dominated the series 4-0. Historically, Boston holds a significant advantage, with a 146-75 overall record against Brooklyn and a 69-40 record on the road.
Celtics’ Current Standing
Currently 2nd in the Eastern Conference, the Celtics trail the leading Detroit team by 5.5 games. They hold a 1.5-game lead over New York and a 3-game lead over both Cleveland and Philadelphia. With a 20-10 record against conference opponents and a 14-9 road record, the Celtics are coming off a recent win. This game is the first of back-to-back contests for Boston, as they will face Chicago on Saturday.
Nets’ Current Standing
The Nets find themselves 13th in the East, 7 games behind Atlanta for the 10th seed. They are 9-18 against Eastern Conference teams and 6-16 at home, having lost their last three games. Despite their struggles, they are 2 games ahead of Washington and 3.5 ahead of Indiana.
Injury Report
The Celtics will be without Jayson Tatum (Achilles rehab) and Josh Minott (ankle sprain). Derrick White will sit for rest. Neemias Queta is questionable due to illness, with Luka Garza potentially starting in his place. For the Nets, Haywood Highsmith is out with a knee injury.
Probable Starting Lineups
- Celtics: Payton Pritchard (PG), Baylor Scheierman (SG), Jaylen Brown (SF), Sam Hauser (PF), Neemias Queta (C)
- Nets: Egor Demin (PG), Drake Powell (SG), Michael Porter, Jr (SF), Noah Clowney (PF), Nic Claxton (C)
Key Matchups
Jaylen Brown vs. Michael Porter, Jr.
Porter Jr. is the Nets’ leading scorer, averaging 25.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1 steal per game, shooting 48.1% from the field and 39.6% from three-point range. He’s been particularly effective against Boston this season, averaging 29 points and 7 rebounds in their two matchups. Containing Porter Jr. will be crucial for the Celtics’ success. NBA.com Player Profile
Neemias Queta vs. Nic Claxton
Claxton is a dominant force for the Nets, averaging 12.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game, shooting 58.3% from the field. He even recorded a triple-double in their win against the Celtics. The Celtics need to limit his impact in the paint and be mindful of his rim protection. NBA.com Player Profile
Keys to the Game
- Defense: The Celtics need to leverage their strong defensive rating (13th in the league) against the Nets’ struggling offense (26th).
- Rebounding: Controlling the boards will be vital. The Celtics are 10th in the league in rebounding, while the Nets are last.
- Don’t Underestimate: Despite their record, the Nets will play with intensity, especially after a recent blowout loss.
- Ball Movement: The Celtics are more effective when they move the ball and avoid isolation plays.
X-Factors
The Celtics must stay focused despite being on the road and avoid complacency. The officiating could also play a role, as different crews have varying styles.
