So remember all that stuff I said about Shaq being efficient and durable and Doc Rivers using him wisely to make him the best player he can be at age 38? Forget it. For tonight at least.
Kate Fagan is reporting on twitter that Shaq is out for tonight’s game and Semih Erden from Turkey will replace him in the starting lineup. This is the 7-footer Erden’s first career start in this, his rookie season. He hasn’t played more than 21 minutes in a game up to this point.
Also out for the Celts are Jermaine O’Neal, Delonte West, and of course Kendrick Perkins. Jason Kapono will sit another one out for the Sixers. The other starting lineups are the usual with Jrue/Meeks/Iguodala/Brand/Hawes for the home team and Rondo/Allen/Pierce/Garnett/Erden for the visitors. Hopefully Spencer Hawes will be able to capitalize on the NBA inexperience of Erden, who is actually two years older than Spawes.
Tip-off in twenty minutes.