Report: Shaq May Be Out Until Playoffs
BOSTON (CBS) - The Boston Celtics may be without center Shaquille O'Neal until the playoffs, Comcast Sports New England reports.
O'Neal's slew of injuries are taking longer to heal than the team expected, but the Celtics are not calling this latest setback a setback. Shaq recently needed a cortisone shot to reduce swelling in his Achilles, which also required him to wear a walking boot.
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Shaq has had many expected return dates, but they never seem to come to fruition. His latest targeted return of April 5th is looking less and less likely.
Celtics coach Doc Rivers joined 98.5 The Sports Hub's Felger and Massarotti on Thursday, and despite the injuries and setbacks, does not think Shaq will need much time to get ready.
"Shaq at the end of the day, when you put him on the floor is still seven-foot whatever, weighs whatever, and he's big. He's a presence. That's going to be a factor," Rivers said.
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Rivers stressed he would like to get Shaq on the floor for chemistry purposes, but does not want to rush him back.
The Celtics will get one of their O'Neal's back, as Jermaine O'Neal is set to make his return Thursday night against the San Antonio Spurs.
