The Boston Celtics are set to welcome back Kristaps Porzingis to their lineup for their last game before the All-Star break, as they prepare to face the Brooklyn Nets in a Wednesday night showdown.

Porzingis, the seven-foot-three center, missed the previous game due to a lower back contusion sustained in the Celtics’ victory against the Miami Heat. His return adds depth to the Celtics’ roster as they aim to maintain their NBA-leading record of 42-12.

In their recent encounter with the Nets at Barclays Center, the Celtics secured a 118-110 victory, fueled by a historic performance from Jayson Tatum. Tatum’s remarkable stat line, which included 40 points, 14 rebounds, five threes, five assists, and two steals, solidified his place in NBA history. Notably, Tatum achieved this feat with fewer than three turnovers, a rare accomplishment.

However, the Celtics will be without Jaylen Brown for Wednesday’s rematch against the Nets. Brown, nursing a right shoulder contusion, will sit out the game, prompting Sam Hauser to start in his place.

Additionally, Al Horford will remain sidelined due to a left big toe sprain, while recent trade-deadline acquisitions Xavier Tillman and Jaden Springer are also unavailable. Tillman is inactive due to left knee injury management, while Springer is dealing with a right ankle impingement.

The Celtics-Nets showdown at TD Garden promises to be an exciting matchup, with both teams vying for supremacy before the All-Star break. Fans can expect comprehensive coverage of the game from Inside The Celtics, with updates and analysis provided by @BobbyKrivitsky on Twitter.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM EST, and basketball enthusiasts can anticipate an intense battle between these Eastern Conference contenders.