BOSTON (AP) – Rajon Rondo is in the starting line-up for the Boston Celtics’ NBA opener against the Brooklyn Nets.
Coach Brad Stevens said before tonight’s game that his All-Star point guard was ready to return from the broken hand that cost him most of training camp.
“He’s as up to speed as he can be,” Stevens told reporters. “I think he’s ready to roll.”
After missing the first half of last season recovering from reconstructive knee surgery, Rondo seemed healthy heading into camp this fall before breaking a bone in his hand when he slipped in the shower.
He was expected to miss six to eight weeks, but in updates this week he hinted that he might be able to come back early. It’s been five weeks since the injury.
Rondo had an X-ray on Monday, and before practice yesterday he said he would see how he feels after his pregame nap.
Apparently, he slept well.
“He’s obviously anxious to play,” Stevens said.
As the longest-tenured member of the Celtics, Rondo was expected to address the crowd before the opener. Stevens said Rondo will wear a protective pad to protect the hand during the game.
“I might play him in shorter stints, but no minutes restrictions,” Stevens said. “It will be how he plays after that. It really is his first preseason game.”