The Boston Celtics open their 2026-27 NBA regular season against the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, with tipoff scheduled for 3:00 p.m. ET at Little Caesars Arena.
Boston enters the matchup with a projected starting lineup featuring Jayson Tatum, Derrick White and Paul George as the Celtics look to begin the new NBA season with a victory.
Here is a closer look at the Boston Celtics projected starting lineup vs. Detroit Pistons, along with injury updates, game information and where to watch.
Boston Celtics Projected Starting Lineup vs. Detroit Pistons
The Celtics are projected to start the following five players against Detroit:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Point Guard (PG) | Derrick White |
| Shooting Guard (SG) | Paul George |
| Small Forward (SF) | Jayson Tatum |
| Power Forward (PF) | Jordan Walsh |
| Center (C) | Mitchell Robinson |
Note: This is a projected lineup. Boston’s official starting five has not yet been confirmed.
Is Jayson Tatum Playing Today vs. Detroit Pistons?
Jayson Tatum is expected to play for the Boston Celtics against the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday, October 20.
Tatum is projected to start at small forward and will be one of Boston’s key offensive players in the season opener.
His scoring ability, rebounding and playmaking will be important as the Celtics face Detroit.
Is Paul George Starting for the Celtics Today?
Paul George is projected to start at shooting guard for Boston against Detroit.
George brings veteran experience, perimeter scoring and defensive versatility to the Celtics’ projected starting lineup.
His combination with Tatum and Derrick White could provide Boston with multiple offensive options throughout the game.
Boston Celtics Injury Report vs. Detroit Pistons
The Celtics enter their season opener with some availability questions.
Guard Devin Carter has been reported out with an illness, while Jayson Tatum, Paul George and Derrick White are expected to be available.
Boston’s final injury report and official starting lineup should be checked closer to tipoff for any last-minute changes.
What Time Is Celtics vs. Pistons Today?
The Boston Celtics face the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
Game details:
- Matchup: Boston Celtics at Detroit Pistons
- Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
- Time: 3:00 p.m. ET
- Location: Little Caesars Arena
- Competition: 2026-27 NBA Regular Season
Where to Watch Boston Celtics vs. Detroit Pistons Today
The Boston Celtics vs. Detroit Pistons game is scheduled to air nationally on NBC, with streaming available through Peacock.
Fans can watch the game on television or stream it through Peacock with an eligible subscription.
What to Watch in Celtics vs. Pistons
Boston’s projected lineup offers several intriguing storylines entering the opening game of the season.
Jayson Tatum’s offensive leadership: Tatum will be a central part of Boston’s offense, particularly in half-court situations.
Paul George’s role: George’s scoring and defensive versatility could help the Celtics create favorable matchups against Detroit.
Derrick White’s playmaking: White will be responsible for helping organize Boston’s offense while contributing on the defensive end.
Boston’s frontcourt: Jordan Walsh and Mitchell Robinson could play important roles in rebounding, interior defense and protecting the paint.
When Will the Celtics Official Starting Lineup Be Announced?
NBA teams typically confirm their starting lineups shortly before tipoff.
For Boston’s October 20 matchup against Detroit, the official starting five should become available closer to the scheduled 3:00 p.m. ET start.
Any late injury developments or coaching decisions could result in changes to the projected lineup.
Final Thoughts
The Boston Celtics are projected to begin the 2026-27 NBA season with Derrick White, Paul George, Jayson Tatum, Jordan Walsh and Mitchell Robinson in their starting lineup against the Detroit Pistons.
With Tatum leading the offense and George providing another experienced scoring option, Boston will look to establish momentum in its season opener.
The Celtics and Pistons are scheduled to tip off at 3:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, with coverage on NBC and Peacock.
Starting lineup projections and player availability are subject to change before tipoff.