Porzingis Return Boosts Boston

After virus layoff, he will be key against Nets with Brown out and Tatum a doubt

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The Boston Celtics will look to continue their National Basketball Association (NBA) dominance over the visiting Brooklyn Nets when the teams meet on March 18 (March 19, Singapore time).

Boston have won 13 of their last 14 games against Brooklyn, including a 115-113 victory at Brooklyn on March 15. The Celtics are 3-0 against the Nets this season.

One key player who could again make a difference is Kristaps Porzingis, who returned to the court after missing eight games with a viral illness and scored 14 of his game-high 24 points in the fourth quarter.

"I haven't been this sick, probably ever, in my life," he said. "I was not feeling in shape yet, but in these kinds of moments, you've got to bite down and bring something from deep."

The Celtics, who trail only the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference standings, needed a big effort from Porzingis since they played without Al Horford (toe) and Derrick White (knee).

Jaylen Brown also left the game with back spasms midway through the third quarter and did not return; he is listed as out for the March 18 matchup.