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If the Boston Celtics do need the services of Romeo Langford in Monday night’s playoff opener versus the Philadelphia 76ers, the rookie will indeed be available.
Langford’s status for the series was in jeopardy after it was revealed Saturday that the No. 14 overall pick in last year’s NBA draft has torn ligaments as well as a sprain in his right wrist.
But Langford will suit up and push through the pain to be at the disposal of Brad Stevens for Game 1 of the first round series if the head coach does give Langford any minutes.
Breaking news: #Celtics list Romeo Langford as AVAILABLE, despite a wrist sprain with torn ligaments. Brad Stevens told us Saturday it would be about pain tolerance for the rookie.
— Abby Chin (@tvabby) August 17, 2020
Langford played on average just 11.6 minutes in 32 games for the Celtics during his inaugural NBA season as the Indiana product didn’t contribute much with by scoring 2.5 points and grabbing 1.3 rebounds per game.
But the athletic wing did garner some attention in the bubble during the seeding games for his strong defensive play, which could be useful versus the lengthy 76ers if Stevens chooses to give Langford a taste of the postseason.
But even if Langford doesn’t get any minutes, it’s encouraging that he’s willing to play through a somewhat severe injury that will more than likely need surgery this offseason.
Vincent Poirier, who is dealing with a left groin strain, is also available for the Celtics.