Sunday NBA Injury Report: Crucial Player Statuses Shift Team Prospects

Sunday NBA Injury Report OverviewIn the NBA, injuries can turn the tide of a season, and with the trade deadline passed, teams are feeling the ripple effects. Sunday's matchups feature a notable list of injuries affecting key players, which could sway betting lines and match outcomes significantly.

Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks: Key Injury Insights The Boston Celtics enter this game on a five-game winning streak, showcasing a 7.2 net rating this season. However, they will be without Sam Hauser (low back), who has provided essential spacing and wing depth. This season, the Celtics have performed 33-16 with Hauser (plus-7.5 net rating) and just 1-2 without him (plus-3.0).- Starters likely to step up: Baylor Scheierman, Derrick White, and Jaylen Brown are anticipated to fill the gaps created by Hauser's absence.

On the other hand, the New York Knicks face serious question marks:- Karl-Anthony Towns (right eye) is crucial, as New York boasts a 31-17 record with him (plus-6.5 net rating), but falls to 2-2 without him (minus-10.8). Losing a player contributing 19.9 points and 11.9 rebounds could prove disastrous.- OG Anunoby (right toe) is also questionable. With him, the Knicks hold a 27-14 record (plus-6.1), while without him, they are 6-5 (plus-1.8).- Josh Hart (right ankle) is uncertain for the matchup and has helped the Knicks significantly, with a record of 27-13 when he plays (plus-7.6) vs. 6-6 without him (minus-2.7).

The depth behind Jalen Brunson may be challenged further with Miles McBride (pelvic) ruled out, underscoring the need for Brunson to step up in scoring and playmaking duties.

Miami Heat vs. Washington Wizards: Impacts of Player Absences In their matchup, the Miami Heat will contend with a shorthanded lineup as they face the Washington Wizards on a back-to-back. They are missing a key offensive contributor, Tyler Herro (right costochondral), and have fared better without him this season. Miami is 23-19 without Herro (plus-3.7 net rating) versus 4-7 with him (minus-5.5).- Probable Starters: Norman Powell and Bam Adebayo are expected to take on more significant roles. The Wizards also face their own challenges:- Alex Sarr (right ankle) has been pivotal with 17.3 points per game at a 25.2% usage rate, but is questionable. Washington holds an 11-29 record with him (minus-10.1) and has struggled significantly without key players.- Kyshawn George (right knee) and Bilal Coulibaly (lower back) are in similar questionable status, indicating that Washington's performance hinges heavily on their availability.

The Bottom Line The injuries on both sides dramatically impact their chances for success on this crucial Sunday. The Celtics hope to maintain momentum despite Hauser's absence, while the Knicks face a potential offensive void if Towns can't play. In the Heat vs. Wizards contest, every absence tightens the margin for error, making depth and adaptation essential to victory. Teams must not only navigate physical challenges but also find cohesion amid their shifting rosters as the playoff push intensifies.