Celtics' Stevens: Thomas intends to play in Game 1 following sister's death

Isaiah Thomas will suit up amid tragedy.

While the Boston Celtics point guard is "struggling," he intends to play in Sunday's first-round series opener versus the Chicago Bulls, head coach Brad Stevens announced.

The contest comes just one day after Thomas' sister, Chyna, was killed in a car accident.

Stevens has been encouraging his floor general to do what's right for him.

"When you see tough things happen to people, this community rallies around them," the coach said of Beantown. "You can already feel that."

It was possible Thomas would forego playing in the game to return to his hometown of Tacoma, Wash., to be with his family. Instead, the 28-year-old All-Star participated in Boston's walk-through, went through his usual pregame routine, and is listed in the starting lineup for the 6:30 p.m. ET tip at TD Garden.

Related: Butler says he looks forward to matchup with Thomas

The Celtics are surely grateful to have their best player available. Mr. Fourth Quarter led the team in points (28.9), assists (5.9), and 3-pointers made (3.2) per game during the regular season.