Celtics hoping to get game in

The Boston Celtics expect their unplanned weeklong hiatus because of coronavirus-related issues to end Jan. 15, when they’re scheduled to play host to the Orlando Magic.

The Phoenix Suns, however, have a bit more time off coming.

The Celtics will be without at least three players Jan. 14, including All-Star forward Jayson Tatum, because of the league’s health and safety protocols. But four others are apparently on the cusp of satisfying their league-mandated time away from the team and are listed as questionable.

“I don’t think there’s an easy answer here,” Celtics coach Brad Stevens said Jan. 14 after the team’s first time on the court together since a shootaround for a game Jan. 10 against Miami that ultimately was postponed. “This is a difficult time around the country. This pandemic is as rampant as it’s ever been and obviously we’re feeling some of that despite the great precautions and great steps we’re taking not to.”

Meanwhile, the Indiana at Phoenix game scheduled for Jan. 16 has been called off — the ninth such postponement since the week began. The Suns will not have enough players eligible to play, largely because of contact tracing issues, the NBA said.

College football

TIDE PLAYERS ENTER DRAFT » Four stars from Alabama’s national championship team, including Heisman Trophy finalist quarterback Mac Jones, are leaving early to enter the NFL draft. Jones, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, cornerback Patrick Surtain II and defensive lineman Christian Barmore announced their intentions to leave — all are considered potential first-round picks.

NFL

GOFF TO START » Quarterback Jared Goff will start the Rams’ playoff game at Green Bay, and John Wolford will be inactive. Coach Sean McVay announced his decision Jan. 14 ahead of the final workout for the Rams before they travel to face the top-seeded Packers at Lambeau Field.

LIONS HIRE GM » The Lions desperately need to figure out how to draft better players and they’re leaning on Brad Holmes to lead the way, drawing on his expertise with the Rams. Holmes and the Lions agreed to terms on a deal that makes him their general manager. He led the Rams’ college scouting department for eight years and started his 18year career with them as a public relations intern in 2003.