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Celtics Host Pacers: Brown Returns, Haliburton Out

1/21/2026

24 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Boston Celtics will host the Indiana Pacers on January 21 at 7:30 p.m. ET at TD Garden.
The Celtics own a 26-16 record and lead the season series 2-1.
Boston is favored by 10.5 points; Jaylen Brown is expected to play, while Indiana will miss Tyrese Haliburton and Benedict Mathurin.
Both teams lost recently, with Boston to Detroit and Indiana to Philadelphia, and the over/under is 226.5.

History

Historical Context

The Boston Celtics, led by Larry Bird, won the NBA Championship in 1980, marking a pivotal moment in basketball history. This victory followed a significant turnaround from a 29-win season to 61 wins, showcasing their resilience. The Celtics' rivalry with the Indiana Pacers has evolved over the years, with Boston currently leading the season series 2-1, reflecting the enduring legacy of both franchises.

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Story summary

The Boston Celtics will host the Indiana Pacers on January 21 at 7:30 p.m. ET at TD Garden.
The Celtics own a 26-16 record and lead the season series 2-1.
Boston is favored by 10.5 points; Jaylen Brown is expected to play, while Indiana will miss Tyrese Haliburton and Benedict Mathurin.
Both teams lost recently, with Boston to Detroit and Indiana to Philadelphia, and the over/under is 226.5.

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