CLEVELAND — The Boston Celtics are aiming to continue their impressive winning streak in the NBA, even though they will be without two key starters for their upcoming game.

Jaylen Brown and Derrick White will not participate in Sunday’s matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers, who are eager to bounce back after suffering their first defeat of the season at the hands of the Celtics on November 19. Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed that Brown is sidelined due to a non-COVID-related illness, while White is contending with a foot sprain he sustained during the third quarter of the team’s recent victory over Chicago.

Brown is an important offensive contributor for the Celtics, averaging 24.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. Meanwhile, White is recognized as the team’s top defender, crucial for their on-ball defensive schemes. The Celtics, who have won seven consecutive games, will head into this contest against Cleveland, which currently has a record of 17-3 but has experienced back-to-back losses to the Atlanta Hawks. The Cavaliers had a strong start to their season, remaining undefeated at 15-0 before the Celtics handed them a narrow 120-117 loss on the road two weeks ago.

On a positive note, the Celtics will welcome back several starters who were previously listed as questionable: Kristaps Porzingis (injury management), Al Horford (toe sprain), and Jrue Holiday (adductor tightness). Porzingis did not play in the first face-off between these two top teams in the Eastern Conference. His presence will add a significant offensive threat, as his shooting skills enable the Celtics to create more space on the court, forcing Cleveland’s top rim protectors, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, to adjust their positioning away from the basket.

Although the Celtics have faced challenges with injuries, Coach Mazzulla has expressed satisfaction with the team’s recent performances. “I like where we’re at,” he remarked. “We’re playing some good basketball, but we know we can improve, and that’s a healthy mindset. We are pleased with our progress thus far… it’s encouraging to know that we are not at our peak, considering the amount of time we still have to address those areas.”