Two Celtics Starters OUT For Game 1 Versus Heat

The Boston Celtics have announced that starters Al Horford and Marcus Smart are both out for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals versus the Miami Heat. Horford is reportedly in health and safety protocols, while Smart is nursing a right mid-foot sprain that he suffered in Game 7 against the Milwaukee Bucks.

#NEBHInjuryReport update:

Al Horford (Health & Safety Protocols) - OUT
Marcus Smart (right mid-foot sprain) - OUT
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) May 17, 2022

The timing couldn't have come at a worse time for Boston

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Celtics expect Horford to be out through Game 2 on Thursday.

Boston is prepared for the likely scenario of Al Horford remaining in the league’s Health and Safety Protocols through Game 2 on Thursday, sources said. https://t.co/QsWWjKDRcq
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 17, 2022

Celtics coach Ime Udoka spoke pre-game and said Smart was dealing with swelling and soreness on the foot. The coach hoped the Defensive Player of the Year would respond well to treatment in time for tip-off at 8:30 PM ET.

Boston just came off a dominant 109-81 Game 7 victory to dethrone the defending champion, Milwaukee Bucks. The Celtics are looking to make their first NBA Finals appearance since 2010 and avenge a loss to this same Heat squad in the 2020 NBA playoffs.