With 11 NBA games slated for Saturday, the league is rife with player movement and injury updates, particularly as teams strategize heading into the All-Star break. Key matchups include a face-off between the Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks, where both teams are in advantageous spots despite injuries. Houston will miss Jabari Smith and Fred VanVleet, indicating an opportunity for players like Dylan Brooks and the emerging Cam Whitmore. Dallas, meanwhile, is also adjusting to injuries, with Dwight Powell and Derk Livy's absence impacting their rotation. In Los Angeles, Anthony Davis is expected to play, bringing a mix of uncertainty and potential for fantasy players.

The day's games also feature significant implications for teams involved in recent trades, such as the Indiana Pacers and the Chicago Bulls, which complicates player selection for fantasy lineups. Injuries plague teams like the Atlanta Hawks and Washington Wizards, making streaming options a necessity for fantasy managers. Overall, Saturday promises a hectic day as teams finalize their preparations before the break, and fantasy owners must stay alert to last-minute changes.

The Boston Celtics faced a hard-fought loss against the Houston Rockets, succumbing to a close score of 114-112. Despite holding a 12-point lead midway through the fourth quarter, the Celtics allowed the Rockets to surge back with a 13-0 run, showcasing Houston's resilience and determination. Dillon Brooks had an impressive game, hitting 10 three-pointers, while Amen Thompson sealed the win with a career-high 33 points, including the game-winning shot. The Celtics struggled defensively, failing to contain Houston's role players while holding back their star players like Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green.

In the closing moments, the Celtics had opportunities to finish strong. Jaylen Brown made key plays to keep the game within reach, but defensive miscommunications and late-game errors cost them dearly. With the Rockets now looking like a serious contender in the West, the Celtics will need to regroup and address their late-game execution issues. Head coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged that it was on him to assist his players better during critical moments. This matchup marked a split in the season series between the two teams, with each securing a win at home.