Celtics' Sam Hauser Leaves Game 1 with Ankle Injury

Boston Celtics forward Sam Hauser exited Game 1 against the New York Knicks after spraining his right ankle while contesting an OG Anunoby three-point attempt late in the third quarter. Hauser, who did not play in the first half but was brought in due to Kristaps Porzingis' absence with a non-COVID illness, was helped off the floor by trainers and is listed as questionable to return. Before leaving, Hauser missed both of his shot attempts in just under four minutes of play. His injury, combined with Porzingis' absence, leaves the Celtics with two rotation players out, potentially forcing the team to rely more heavily on their starters for the remainder of the series. Hauser had been a significant contributor off the bench during the season, averaging 8.5 points per game and shooting over 41% from three-point range. The Celtics have not yet provided updates on the expected return of either player.