Celtics Pietrus Hopes To Play Wednesday
BOSTON (CBS) - After an embarrassing loss to the Indiana Pacers, the Boston Celtics could use a boost.
Their bench is about to get just that.
Forward Mickael Pietrus had his first full-practice on Monday, and said he hopes to make his Celtics debut Wednesday night when Boston hosts the Dallas Mavericks at the Garden.
"Today I went through my first practice. It feels good to be a Celtic. I had fun so hopefully, I'll be back on the court Wednesday," Pietrus said Monday at the Celtics practice facilities in Waltham.
Pietrus On His Return
"He's another piece that can help us," head coach Doc Rivers said of Pietrus. "You can see his toughness, you can see his defense. He made three or four three's today that were just off of swings that were great to see; that adds shooting to our second unit so I'm happy about it."
Gallery: 2011-12 Boston Celtics
Pietrus, who was signed by Boston on Christmas Eve, missed the first eight games this season as he recovered from off-season knee surgery.
When asked if how long it would take to reach 100-percent, Pietrus had some fun with the reporter.
"You have a watch? Probably 48 hours," he joked.
When the 6-6 forward returns, he will give the Celtics another shooter and quality defender off the bench.
"I think I'll be able to help my team. I went through practice with no pain," said Pietrus. "I told you guys I'd be ready to go in two weeks and two weeks came. I'm very happy I could go through practice with my teammates and get stuff done."
An eight-year veteran, Pietrus has played for Golden State, Orlando and Phoenix averaging 8.1 points and 3.1 rebounds per game for his career.
