Consider both are down key players, and Boston has improved on countering one of Houston's greatest early-season strengths, this matchup is compelling.

The Boston Celtics have rebounded from an 0-3 start to the regular season to win three consecutive games. Coming into their Saturday matchup against the Houston Rockets, the Celtics got several injury updates for a couple of key players including Derrick White and Payton Pritchard, as per the NBA’s official injury report.

Just a day removed from enacting their vengeance against the Philadelphia 76ers in another one-point nailbiter and winning their third straight game this season

The Boston Celtics (3-3) will attempt to extend a three-game winning run when hosting the Houston Rockets (2-2) on November 1, 2025 at TD Garden. Houston is a 5.5-point favorite against Boston when the Rockets hit the court against the Celtics on Saturday.

What can we expect from a Houston - Boston tilt without VanVleet and Tatum? And what does a successful season look like for both teams?

Joe Mazzulla addresses the Boston Celtics' brutal home loss to the Houston Rockets, but his focus is already shifting to what's next