Final: Celtics 115, Nets 113 - Porzingis returns & leads Celtics to nailbiter win

BOSTON CELTICS (48-19) at BROOKLYN NETS (22-44) 

Barclays Center, 6 p.m. - NBCS Boston

Line: Celtics -10.5

INJURIES

Boston

OUT: Al Horford (toe), Derrick White (knee)

Brooklyn

OUT:  Nic Claxton (rest), Noah Clowney (ankle), De’Anthonoy Melton (knee), Cam Thomas (hamstring), Trendon Watford (hamstring)

THINGS I’M LOOKING FOR

1. Kristaps Porzingis’ return: He tried to come back from this virus once and looked bad. I don’t think they’ll make that same mistake again. He seemed more himself on the bench last night in Miami, so let’s see what kind of energy he brings to this game. He’ll be limited, but all I care about tonight is 15-20 solid minutes of getting his wind and touch back. 

2. The Jays: They're both in, much to my chagrin. So let’s see what kind of energy they bring. If they're out there farting around and playing at half speed, I’ll lose my mind. 

I’d like to see shorter stints for them in this game. Jayson Tatum played enough last night. Pull him a little earlier, sit him a little longer, and keep him in the low to mid-30 minute range. Jaylen Brown shouldn’t play much more in this game either. 

3. D’Angelo Russell: He’s going to try to score 50 against the Celtics tonight. He wants to have a big game against the champs. I’m fully expecting him to try putting on the DLo Show, which will either go very well, or very poorly. There's no in-between. Either way, I’m betting he takes 30 shots. 

Follow along with my thoughts as the game goes on. They’ll show up below and in the comments section, so hop in and share your opinion as well.