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The Celtics have problems much deeper than missing a couple of guys via injury. However, sometimes getting a couple of starters back in the lineup can be the catalyst to turning things around.
It sounds like Al Horford is finally making progress through the concussion protocol. He was cleared to practice which is a great first step. Of course he still has some steps to go through before he can return to the court and help this team win basketball games.
The coach cautioned, however, that the team did not do any contact in practice and that it is still doubtful Horford will be cleared in time for Friday night’s game against the New York Knicks at TD Garden.
Jae Crowder is also missing time with a sprained ankle and it does not sound like he’s as close to returning as Horford.
Stevens added that he does not expect to have forward Jae Crowder back from his left ankle sprain until next Wednesday’s game against the Dallas Mavericks “in a best-case scenario.”
As much as I’m sure Jae wants to be back on the court, I think that he knows that he may have rushed back a little too soon last year and he would be wise to make sure he’s closer to 100% this time around.