Celtics boss Danny Ainge says guard Kyrie Irving will be fresh and healthy when the playoffs begin.

Boston, which was without six players, blows a 20-point lead.

Boston is hurting – with Marcus Smart a big question mark and Daniel Theis out for the season – and their G League affiliate might provide relief.

Al Horford and Jaylen Brown sit out, and Kyrie Irving leaves with knee soreness.

Double-digit deficits have been noticeably absent since the team returned from the All-Star break.

Boston routs the Bulls 105-89 as Kyrie Irving nurses a sore left knee.

Boston missed opportunities down the stretch and suffered its first loss since the All-Star break.

Houston overcomes a late six-point deficit and extends its winning streak to 15 with a 123-120 victory.

Kyrie Irving scores 25 points in just three quarters of action.

Golden State’s All-Stars remain impressed with Boston and think the Celtics are likely to go deep into the playoffs, regardless of their recent rough patch.