Harper Jr. has emerged as a productive role player for Boston after standout play in the G League, where he earned All-NBA G League Third Team honors. He initially joined on a two-way deal before earning a standard NBA contract, and coaches had hoped he would contribute meaningful postseason minutes.
In Game 1, Harper Jr. logged only four minutes as the Celtics cruised to a 123-91 victory. As Boston prepares for Game 2, his ankle injury is being watched, but the soreness is not described as a severe sprain. The team will likely prioritize caution with such a pivotal series underway.
The 6-foot-5 guard has shown scoring capability when given extended minutes, including a career-high 27 points in the regular-season finale against the Orlando Magic. In the playoffs, his opportunities will be more limited, and Boston will lean on its established core as the series unfolds.
Overall, expectations are that Harper Jr.’s ankle issue will not drastically alter Boston’s approach or game plan, provided Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown remain healthy. Tatum has overcome an Achilles setback and finished the regular season strongly, while Brown is having a career-best year, giving the Celtics their best chance at a deep postseason run.
Game 2 is set for Tuesday at TD Garden, with Boston aiming to tighten its grip on the series before heading to Philadelphia. The Celtics will look to sustain their strong defensive effort from Game 1, when they limited the 76ers to 91 points on 36 percent shooting and 17 percent from three, and maintain a disciplined, low-turnover performance.
