Watch CBS News

Bradley 'Nowhere Near Ready' For Celtics Camp

BOSTON (CBS) -  It's a good thing the Celtics bulked up their depth at guard this off-season, because it doesn't sound like Avery Bradley will hit the floor until the middle of the season.

The third-year guard is "nowhere near ready" to participate in the team's training camp, which opens on Friday, head coach Doc Rivers told ESPNBoston.com's Jackie MacMullan.

"Not even close,'' Rivers said. "I don't like to put a time limit on injuries, but I don't think you'll see him before December -- and there's a chance it could be closer to January.''

Read: Doc Says 'Not Right' To Put Ray's Departure On Rondo

Bradley underwent a pair of off-season shoulder surgeries after battling through a number of dislocations in his left shoulder at the end of the season and in the playoffs. He also had his right shoulder repaired over the summer.

Bradley emerged in the second-half of last season, and finished the year as Boston's starting two-guard. He averaged 7.6 points and 1.4 assists per game, shooting 50-percent from the floor.

Stats: Celtics Depth Chart

While the Celtics lost Ray Allen to free agency, they bulked up their back court with guards Jason Terry and Courtney Lee. Lee will start in Bradley's absence, which could lead to more minutes for Dionte Christmas, who the Celtics signed after a strong performance in the Summer League.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.