Celtics optimistic about Garnett's recovery
Kevin Garnett(notes) continues to make progress in his recovery from knee surgery, and the Boston Celtics hope their All-Star forward will be cleared for full-court scrimmaging by the start of training camp.
Garnett began working out at the Celtics’ practice facility on Monday. For now, he is limited to participating in court drills that include shooting and running. He could be cleared for contact as early as the week before camp.
Celtics general manager Danny Ainge said the team continues to be cautious with Garnett, who missed the playoffs with a right knee injury that eventually required surgery on May 26.
“We’re looking for him to be there at the end of the season, not just the start of the season,” Ainge said. “We’re getting him ready for training camp and looking forward to him being healthy in the playoffs. He looks good. Really good.”
Garnett played in only 57 games last season. The Celtics strengthened their frontline this summer by signing Rasheed Wallace(notes) and bringing back Glen Davis(notes).
Paul Pierce(notes), Ray Allen(notes) and Wallace also are working out at the Celtics’ training facility. Ainge said he is unsure whether the Celtics will offer point guard Rajon Rondo(notes) a contract extension before the start of the season. If Rondo does not receive an extension, he will become a restricted free agent next summer.
The Celtics also are considering adding a third point guard. Possible candidates include second-round draft pick Lester Hudson(notes) and free agents Tyronn Lue(notes), Dan Dickau(notes) and Mike Taylor(notes), who worked out at the team’s facility on Thursday.
