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Celtics vs Raptors headlines Wednesday night’s NBA schedule as Boston closes a demanding four-game road trip against Toronto at Scotiabank Arena. The Celtics enter the matchup with a 9-2 record, while the Raptors sit at 5-5 in the Eastern Conference.
Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET on November 11, 2026. Boston has won four consecutive games and sits first in the East after defeating the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday. Toronto, meanwhile, is trying to rebound after a loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.
Major Celtics vs Raptors Injury Updates
The biggest storyline centers on the long injury report affecting both teams. Boston will be without Paul George, who is sidelined by an illness after producing 36 points in the Celtics’ win over Philadelphia. His absence could force another change to Boston’s starting lineup, with Sam Hauser listed as a possible replacement.
The Raptors are dealing with an even longer list of unavailable players. Kawhi Leonard is out with a knee issue, while Scottie Barnes remains sidelined because of a groin injury. Trayce Jackson-Davis is also out due to illness, and Nate Bittle is unavailable with a foot problem.
Immanuel Quickley, who is managing a hamstring issue, is listed as questionable. Collin Murray-Boyles is also a game-time decision because of an illness. Their availability could significantly alter Toronto’s backcourt and frontcourt rotations before tipoff.
Projected Starting Lineups and Key Matchups
Boston’s projected starters include Derrick White, Jordan Walsh, Sam Hauser, Jayson Tatum and Neemias Queta. The Celtics have frequently adjusted their fifth starter this season, and the back-to-back schedule adds more uncertainty.
Toronto’s expected group features Jamal Shead, RJ Barrett, Ja’Kobe Walter, Collin Murray-Boyles and Jakob Poeltl, although the questionable players could lead to late changes.
- Jordan Walsh vs. RJ Barrett: Barrett is averaging 21.3 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. Boston must limit his ability to attack the paint while staying alert on the perimeter.
- Sam Hauser vs. Ja’Kobe Walter: Walter is contributing 11 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game. Hauser’s shooting could be especially important with George unavailable.
- Neemias Queta vs. Jakob Poeltl: Poeltl is shooting 64.6% from the field and remains a major presence near the basket. Boston will need to keep him away from offensive rebounds.
Critical Keys to Victory for Boston and Toronto
Defense will be decisive. Boston ranks fourth in the NBA in defensive rating at 106.3, while Toronto ranks 14th at 112.4. The Celtics have generally defended well but have occasionally allowed opponents to erase large leads. Maintaining pressure for all four quarters will be essential.
Toronto presents a serious interior challenge, averaging 52.2 points in the paint per game, fourth-best in the league. Boston’s big men and perimeter defenders must close driving lanes without giving up easy second chances.
Rebounding is another major factor. The Celtics average 45.0 rebounds per game, compared with 41.4 for Toronto. However, the Raptors lead the league with 20.7 second-chance points per game. Boston cannot afford to relax on the defensive glass, particularly while playing its second game in two nights.
Ball movement and decision-making will also matter. Toronto averages 22.3 points off turnovers, ranking second in the league, and produces 16.2 fast-break points per game. Careless passes could quickly turn into transition baskets for the home team.
Fatigue Could Shape the Celtics vs Raptors Battle
This is Boston’s second game of a back-to-back and its third contest in four nights. The Celtics are also playing the fourth and final game of a road trip that has taken them through multiple cities. Travel, fatigue and the emotional high of Tuesday’s win in Philadelphia could all become factors late in the game.
Even with those concerns, Boston has shown strong depth and enters with momentum. The Celtics have also won the last five meetings with Toronto and swept all four games between the teams last season. The Raptors, however, will have home-court advantage and an opportunity to challenge the Eastern Conference leaders during a difficult stretch.
The outcome may depend on which team handles its absences more effectively. Boston needs efficient perimeter shooting and disciplined defense, while Toronto must generate offense without Leonard and Barnes. With several players awaiting final medical decisions, the matchup could remain unsettled until warmups.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Celtics vs Raptors game?
The game is scheduled for Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. ET at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.
Is Paul George playing against the Raptors?
No. Paul George is listed out for Boston because of an illness after scoring 36 points against Philadelphia.
Which Raptors players are unavailable?
Kawhi Leonard, Scottie Barnes, Trayce Jackson-Davis and Nate Bittle are listed out. Immanuel Quickley and Collin Murray-Boyles are questionable.
What is the Celtics’ record entering the game?
Boston enters with a 9-2 record, first in the Eastern Conference, and has won four straight games.
