Garnett’s injury adds to Boston’s misery
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Kevin Garnett reinjured his right leg Wednesday in the opening quarter as Boston suffered just its second loss in 17 games in a 104-92 setback at Detroit.
Garnett, 34, left the game after landing awkwardly following a dunk. He hobbled off the court and was taken for X-rays, which came back negative, revealing no fractures. There is concern, however, because Garnett had his right knee surgically repaired in 2009 after missing the entire postseason. He managed to play 69 games last year in leading Boston back to the NBA Finals.
The Celtics are already without point guard Rajon Rondo, who missed his sixth consecutive game Wednesday with a leg injury. For the time being, it appears the Celtics could struggle if both players miss an extended amount of time. On Wednesday, they looked sluggish following Garnett’s injury and trailed by as many as 16 points in the third quarter.
With Garnett out, Paul Pierce carried the load offensively, leading the Celtics (24-6) with 33 points. Ray Allen and Glen Davis finished with 12 apiece. Garnett’s injury forced the Celtics to utilize reserves Avery Bradley, Luke Harangody and Von Wafer. The three combined for five points off the bench in 25 minutes. Semih Erden did not play due to an upper respiratory infection.
Tracy McGrady led the Pistons (11-21) with 21 points. Detroit won for just the second time in its last three games. The wounded Celtics will return home Friday at 3 p.m. against the New Orleans Hornets.
Related Articles
- Celtics cruise to 10th consecutive win
- Celtics hop right back on track
- Celtics lose West, but beat New Jersey
Follow us on Pinterest Google + Facebook Twitter See It Read It