The Boston Celtics' 120-100 rout of the Dallas Mavericks—powered by Jayson Tatum's season debut as covered earlier—was dampened by center Nikola Vučević fracturing his right finger in the first quarter. The 35-year-old underwent surgery Saturday and faces a 3-4 week reevaluation.
Building on Jayson Tatum's impactful return from Achilles injury in the Celtics' dominant win over the Mavericks at TD Garden, attention shifted to a significant setback: newly acquired center Nikola Vučević's hand injury.
Vučević, traded from the Chicago Bulls at the deadline, broke his right finger early in the game. Boston announced he had successful surgery Saturday morning and will be sidelined for at least a month, potentially returning for the final five regular-season games if reevaluated favorably in four weeks.
In 12 bench appearances since joining, Vučević averaged 10.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists in 21.6 minutes, shooting 35.1% from three. Team president Brad Stevens had lauded his presence last month: "When Vooch walks into the room, it looks different. He's big and long and strong and can be standing next to anybody in this league and not look small."
Adjusting from a starting role, Vučević recently scored 28 against the Nets and noted to CLNS Media: "still getting used to, obviously, the new offense, and all my teammates... At times I feel like I overthink a little bit, which makes me kind of hesitant."
His absence elevates backup Luka Garza, a 43% three-point shooter (low volume), whom the Celtics viewed Vučević as upgrading alongside Neemias Queta insurance. With Boston's health otherwise solid, coach Joe Mazzulla could turn to small-ball or rookie Amari Williams if needed.