Brad Stevens: Kemba Walker (knee) could return as soon as Tuesday

The Boston Celtics are inching closer and closer to full health. As they prepare for a marquee matchup tonight against the Houston Rockets without Kemba Walker, Brad Stevens noted that Walker’s return to the lineup might not be too far away.

It appears that Kemba Walker has one final hurdle to clear, and that is a favorable response to his 3-on-3 play tomorrow. If Walker can practice on Monday with the team, there’s potential for a return as the Celtics take on the Brooklyn Nets. In Walker’s absence this year, the Celtics have gone 9-3. Walker has not played since the All-Star game.

Robert Williams III is cleared to make his return tonight, though it appears that any appearance he makes will be brief. This is a function of both easing him back into his first game action since December 6th as well as a function of the opposition. Boston may look to match Houston’s ultra-small-ball style with small ball of their own. A fully healthy Time Lord would actually be a formidable opponent for Houston, but for now, the coaching staff will likely only play him for a short burst or two to get his feet wet.

If Kemba Walker were to return on Tuesday, Boston’s injury report would be fully clear for the first time in, well, I don’t know, I’ve lost count. As the playoffs approach next month (yes, I’m aware that today is February 29th, but you get the point), a fully healthy Boston team is a scary prospect for the rest of the teams in the Eastern Conference bracket.

The Boston Celtics will challenge the Houston Rockets tonight at 8:30 PM EST on ABC.