Sore knee sidelines Celtics' Irving for game against Bulls

Posted March 05, 2018 6:00 am

The Associated Press

CHICAGO (AP) - Boston Celtics All-Star guard Kyrie Irving sat out Monday night's game against the Chicago Bulls because of a sore left knee.

Coach Brad Stevens said Irving aggravated the knee during Saturday's loss to Houston. He felt a little better the following day but was still sore on Monday. Stevens wasn't sure if Irving will be ready to play at Minnesota on Thursday.

"It doesn't sound like it's a long-term concern, but certainly, it could last through the week," Stevens said.

The Celtics chose to start Shane Larkin rather than go with Terry Rozier or Marcus Smart because Stevens said he wanted to keep the second unit together.

Acquired from Cleveland in the offseason deal that sent Isaiah Thomas to the Cavaliers, Irving is averaging 24.8 points in 58 games. He has missed time this season because of a bruised quadriceps, a sore shoulder and a facial fracture.

The Celtics were second behind Toronto in the Eastern Conference at 44-20 entering Monday's game.

___

More NBA basketball: https://apnews.com/tag/NBAbasketball

Boston Celtics guard Kyrie Irving (11) passes the ball as he drives against Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) during the second half of an NBA basketball game Saturday, March 3, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/George Bridges) The Associated Press

Article Comments

Article Categories
Basketball Content Providers NBA Pro Sports Sports Sports Leagues Sports Types

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.