Miami Heat vs Boston Celtics Starting Lineups (Dec. 19) | 2025-26 NBA Season

The Miami Heat look to build momentum as they continue a tough road swing with a battle against the Boston Celtics on Friday. It’s the first of four meetings between the two conference rivals this season. Boston went 3‑1 against Miami last season. The Heat’s sole 124-103 win came after six consecutive defeats dating back to 2023.

The month of December has been unkind to Miami. The Heat have posted a 2‑5 mark in their last seven games, after enjoying a strong 10‑5 run in November. The Heat slid to seventh place in a four-way tie.

On Thursday, they ended their five-game losing streak by defeating the Brooklyn Nets 106-95 behind strong performances from Norman Powell and Kel’el Ware, who combined for 46 points.

Boston, meanwhile, is struggling through a two-game losing skid, including a 112-105 loss to the Pistons at home. What’s frustrating about the streak is that the Celtics could and arguably should have won both games. Failing to close out games in clutch moments has cost them. They are 7-8 in clutch situations this season.

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Prior to the losing skid, Boston probably played the best basketball of the season, going 5-0 in that span. To get back to their winning ways, the Celtics have to find their clutch and defensive play once again.

Miami Heat vs Boston Celtics Starting Lineups and Depth Charts (Dec. 19)

Miami Heat Starting Lineup and Depth Chart

The Heat have lost a few key pieces of their roster to injuries, including Tyler Herro, who has been absent in the last two games with a toe contusion. He is most likely to sit out this one as well. Pelle Larsson (ankle) and Nikola Jovic (elbow) are also expected to miss games due to injuries.

Meanwhile, Norman Powell was listed as questionable against the Nets due to calf discomfort but ended up playing 33 minutes. Since it’s the second leg of a back-to-back, the official injury report won’t be known until closer to game time.

Barring any late setbacks, Miami is expected to go with Andrew Wiggins, Bam Adebayo, Kel’el Ware, Norman Powell and Davion Mitchell for Friday’s tilt with Boston.

Boston Celtics Starting Lineup and Depth Chart

As for the Celtics, they also have a few injury concerns heading into the matchup. Josh Minott, who played 13 minutes during the Pistons game, is listed as probable with a back injury. Sam Hauser, meanwhile, is listed as questionable with an ankle sprain. Jayson Tatum remains out as he continues to recover from an Achilles injury.

Neemias Queta, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Payton Pritchard and Jordan Walsh are most likely to be the starters.

Edited by Mervin LR