Celtics Get Good News on Health Front for Saturday's Rockets Game

Saturday's Celtics-Rockets matchup represents Ime Udoka's first trip back to Boston since his suspension and eventual departure from the franchise.

Saturday night at TD Garden, the Boston Celtics host the Houston Rockets in what will be Ime Udoka's first trip back since his departure from the franchise he helped lead to the 2022 NBA Finals.

In advance of his return, he spoke with Marc Spears of Andscape, acknowledging he's uncertain of the reaction that he'll receive while opening up about handling his exit and maintaining relationships he built with his players in Boston.

Now in Houston, Udoka has the Rockets defying expectations, guiding them to an 18-18 record that has them eighth in the Western Conference. They play with an edge, they're much better defensively than last season, and Jabari Smith Jr. and Alperen Şengün have taken meaningful steps in their development, with the latter already looking like a future All-Star who even has a chance to make it this year.

As for the hosts of Saturday's matchup, even after a schedule-induced 135-102 thrashing by the Milwaukee Bucks, the Celtics, 29-9, sit atop the NBA standings and have a three-game lead on Giannis Antetokounmpo and Co.

And as of now, it appears they will be at full strength for their tilt vs. Houston, with their injury report being a clean sheet.

Saturday's contest will tip off at 7:00 p.m. EST. Inside The Celtics will have content related to the game before, during, and afterward. Follow @BobbyKrivitsky on Twitter for updates and analysis from pregame to post.

Further Reading

Marcus Smart in Danger of Missing Return to Boston

Here's What Stood Out as Crucial Adjustment Ignites Jayson Tatum, Propels Celtics Past Timberwolves to Remain Unbeaten at Home

Jrue Holiday Responds to Celtics Saying He's Sacrificing Most: 'Not Mad at My Situation'

Oshae Brissett Making Strong Case to Fill Celtics' Search for Big Wing

Driven by Championship Pursuit, Jayson Tatum Unfazed by Sacrifice, Less Fanfare: 'Don't Look for That Praise'

Brad Stevens Shares What Celtics Are Looking to Add and How He Hopes to Do So

Derrick White Opens Up About Journey from Uncertainty He Belonged in the NBA to an All-Star Caliber Guard

Jaylen Brown Quieting Doubters, Validating What He Always Believed: 'Earn Everybody's Trust'

Joe Mazzulla Discusses Identity, Evolution of Celtics' Offense: 'Balance of Pace and Execution'

Jaylen Brown Shares His View of What Defines 'Celtics Basketball'