The Boston Celtics entered the 2025 preseason looking like a team ready to dominate as they won three of their four games which gave their fans plenty of hope that this would be a bounce-back year.
But as the regular season tipped off, that momentum quickly faded as the Celtics stumbled out of the gate and lost all three of their opening matchups. Now, as they prepare to face the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday night, fans are wondering whether Jaylen Brown will play.
Is Jaylen Brown Going to Suit Up Against the New Orleans Pelicans?
There’s good news for Celtics fans. According to the latest ESPN injury update, Brown is not listed on the injury report, which means he is expected to suit up against the Pelicans. Having him available stabilizes Boston’s wing rotation and gives the team a much-needed two-way engine.
Brown was listed as questionable before the previous game against the Pistons due to a left hamstring issue sustained during a preseason matchup with the Toronto Raptors.
He ultimately played and exploded. Brown scored 41 points on 12-of-25 shooting, hit 5-of-9 from three, and went 12-of-15 at the line in a 119–113 loss to Detroit. The performance suggested that the hamstring responded well to the workload and that Brown’s downhill aggression remained intact.
However, while Brown is clear, one significant name remains on the shelf: Jayson Tatum. The star forward tore his Achilles tendon during last season’s playoffs, a devastating setback typically requiring a long recovery window.
Early expectations indicated Tatum would miss most, if not all, of the 2025–26 campaign to complete a meticulous rehabilitation process. His absence makes Brown’s importance as Boston’s primary scorer and perimeter stopper.
What Is the Condition of the New Orleans Pelicans Squad?
While the Celtics list just one notable absence, the Pelicans are entering Monday’s game undermanned. Their injury list features:
- Karlo Matkovic – Out (Back Issue)
- Yves Missi – Out (Ankle Issue)
- Kevon Looney – Out (Knee Issue)
- Dejounte Murray – Out (Achilles Injury)
Health has compounded early-season struggles, and New Orleans has stumbled out to a 0–2 start with losses to Memphis and San Antonio.
Still, the Pelicans aren’t to be taken lightly. A healthy Zion Williamson and newly acquired Jordan Poole have been bright spots for the team. Williamson is averaging 27.0 points per game, while Poole is contributing 19.0 points per night, and this performance makes them a dangerous offensive duo.
With both teams desperate for their first win of the season, tonight’s Celtics vs. Pelicans clash promises to be a redemption battle.
