In the beginning of the first quarter during last night’s 98-81 victory over the Sacramento Kings, Boston Celtics’ Jared Sullinger left the game with back spasms.
Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images
With the back pain putting too much weight on him, Sullinger sat out of practice on Thursday, he is ’50/50′ for Friday’s game.
“It’s just what it is — spasms and day-to-day,” said Rivers. “I don’t think it’s anything bad. Just spasms, which are bad.”
And now, it’s Brandon Bass to make the most of the first-year’s absence.
Bass, who has started 33 of 45 games this season, posted 12 points, four rebounds, and five assists. The former LSU Tiger has settled for the jumpshot recently, but on Wednesday he was the aggressive power forward the Celtics fans have all grown to love.
The 27-year-old has tallied for 7.5 points and 4.8 rebounds per contest in the 2012-13 campaign.
If the seven-year pro wants to have his starting role solidified, he must bring an offensive rebounding presence, to bring a quicker mindset in his step on fast break opportunities with Courtney Lee and Avery Bradley, and his ability to play 35-plus minutes for Doc Rivers and company.
Another aspect in Bass’ game, that is overlooked, is power charging to the basket. Like Jeff Green, when Bass takes the ball to the hoop his flight is not silent, it brings a little emphasis at the conclusion.
It has been evident that Sullinger performs the same coming off the bench or starting, but it is evident Bass brings more to the table when he gets his number called to start.
Bass’ ability to run up and down the floor presents a quicker pace offensive scheme down the floor. Bass, who is built like a monster, has the stamina to outrun the opponent’s front court.
Boston Celtics will wait to see if Sullinger can play on Friday against the Orlando Magic, but if the former Ohio State Buckeye can’t go, Bass’ production will be effective.
