Thunder vs. Celtics Injury Report: Holmgren Returns, Tatum Sits
The Oklahoma City Thunder are set to host the Boston Celtics on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 8:30 p.m. CT at the Paycom Center. Key injury updates surround both teams as they prepare for this highly anticipated matchup.
Chet Holmgren to Play After Missing Two Games
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren will be available to play against the Celtics after missing the last two games due to the flu. As reported by The Oklahoman, Holmgren’s return bolsters a Thunder team currently on a six-game winning streak, having recently defeated the Denver Nuggets 129-126 on Monday. The Thunder’s record stands at 51-15.
Jayson Tatum Ruled Out for Celtics
Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum will be sidelined for Thursday’s game due to right Achilles injury management. According to reports, this is a precautionary measure as Tatum continues to recover from a previous Achilles injury. The Celtics (43-22) are looking to rebound from a 125-116 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday.
Other Injury Updates
In addition to Holmgren’s return, Alex Caruso is also available for the Thunder. Sporting News reports that Jalen Williams, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Branden Carlson remain out for Oklahoma City. For Boston, Derrick White is questionable with a right knee contusion, while Nikola Vucevic remains out with a fractured finger. Payton Pritchard will return to action for the Celtics after missing a game due to neck spasms.
How to Watch
- Date: Thursday, March 12, 2026
- Time: 8:30 p.m. CT
- Location: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City
- TV: FanDuel Sports Network
- Streaming: Prime Video
Prediction
Justin Martinez of The Oklahoman predicts a 122-115 victory for the Thunder, citing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s recent performance and the return of Holmgren and Caruso as key factors. The prediction also acknowledges the Celtics’ challenge playing without Jayson Tatum.