Kemba Walker‘s first season in Boston was characteristically strong up until the COVID-19 pandemic suspended play, but his health was a cause for concern.
Walker missed six of the Celtics‘ 10 games before the season was suspended due to a lingering left knee injury. In total, the four-time All-Star had missed 14 games this season, a deviation from the previous four campaigns in which he missed a total of six games.
As the Celtics settle into the Orlando campus amid the NBA’s attempt to restart the season, head coach Brad Stevens indicated the team will play it safe with its prized offseason acquisition.
“We’re going to move very slowly with Kemba Walker and let him strengthen (the left knee),” Stevens said to reporters on Friday, per NBC Sports Boston’s A. Sherrod Blakely. “And make sure that he’s all good to go as we enter the seeding games and obviously, the playoffs.”
Walker, 30, has averaged 21.2 PPG, 4.9 APG and 3.4 RPG for Boston in 50 games this season.
Not going far without Kemba. Had plenty time to heal. Just needs gm shape I guess. Better to be cautious. Boston at full strength. Has a shot for East Finals. Since they won’t see Bucks till then.
Load management is gonna be the key for him going forward
Sounds like it might be the beginning of the end for Kemba, at his age might never get fully fit again, shame a great guy!
As a soldier who retired at almost 40 years old, sustaining multiple injuries and some aches and pain here and there, a person’s body will be fine as long as it’s taken good care. Rest, diet, proper training and laying off bad habits and vices gives your body a long, productive and healthy life.
Well said sargeant and Walker will need more rest after that long salary drive last season. His contract has $108mil left on it after this year but the odds are not good for over 30, under 6 foot, and constantly hitting his legs on a hard surface faster than a younger man.
Smart got beat up a bit but probably is rested by now. Wanamaker, Edwards & Waters all have minuses offensively.
Romeo time.