Preview of Wednesday’s G League Showdown Between Maine and Long Island

UNIONDALE, N.Y. (Interstat) — A tightly contested Eastern Conference playoff picture will be in focus Wednesday when the Maine Celtics visit the Long Island Nets at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

Both teams enter with identical 21-win records, though Long Island (21-17) holds a slight edge in winning percentage over Maine (21-18). The matchup is the second of a quick two-game set between the affiliates, following a meeting on Monday.

Maine arrives with momentum from a dramatic 102-101 road victory over Delaware on Saturday, secured despite playing without several key contributors. Guard Max Shulga was instrumental in that win, posting 26 points and 10 assists. Shulga has been a consistent engine for the Celtics, averaging 17.6 points and 7.8 assists over his last nine games, including a 35-point, 9-assist effort in a narrow loss to Iowa on Feb. 7.

Long Island looks to rebound after a close 104-102 road loss to Birmingham last Friday. The Nets have been strong at home, winning three of their last four at the Coliseum. They will rely on forward Grant Nelson, who is coming off a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double against Birmingham. Nelson has provided efficient interior play, scoring in double figures in seven of his last eight contests while contributing defensively with multiple blocks in three of those games.

The season series is currently split. Long Island dominated the first two meetings in November 2025, but Maine will look to carry over the confidence from its recent last-second win.

The game will feature a contrast in styles. Maine, led by Shulga’s playmaking, ranks among the league’s top offenses but has struggled defensively during a recent 3-6 stretch. Long Island has shown a more balanced attack, with Nelson anchoring the frontcourt alongside consistent performers like guard Malachi Smith and forward E.J. Liddell.

Wednesday’s result could prove critical for postseason positioning as the regular season enters its final weeks. Following this game, Long Island hosts Grand Rapids on Thursday, while Maine travels home to prepare for a Friday matchup against Windy City.