Another day, another long injury report for the Boston Celtics.
The C’s once again will have a number of players still in COVID-19 health and safety protocols when they host the Phoenix Suns for a New Year’s Eve matinee Friday.
The Celtics at least look to benefit from having Marcus Smart back, who — per the team — suffered a lacerated hand during Boston’s Christmas Day game against the Milwaukee Bucks.
He’s missed two straight games since, with the cut apparently too painful for him to play, coach Ime Udoka shared Thursday.
Meanwhile, C.J. Miles has cleared out of protocols, where Jayson Tatum, Dennis Schröder, Aaron Nesmith, Enes Kanter Freedom and Bruno Fernando remain.
The Celtics and Suns tip off at 1 p.m. ET on Friday.
