AP Photo/Mike Fuentes
Jermaine O'Neal elevates for a first-half jumper before departing Monday's game against the Mavericks.Celtics center Jermaine O'Neal, who appeared hobbled at times by a bothersome left knee Sunday against the Oklahoma City Thunder, is not expected to play in the second half of Monday's game against the Dallas Mavericks after the injury flared up, according to the Celtics.
O'Neal logged 11 first-half minutes against the Mavericks, connecting on 1-of-6 shots with two points, three rebounds, and two turnovers.
O'Neal missed time during the preseason with hamstring, back, and wrist injuries. The knee became sore after Boston's loss to Cleveland on the second night of the regular season, forcing him to sit out a game. With Shaquille O'Neal (sore right knee) sidelined for five straight games, including Monday's tilt in Dallas, Jermaine O'Neal has made five straight starts.
Sunday in Oklahoma City, Jermaine O'Neal connected on just 1-of-5 shots for five points, but chipped in nine rebounds. This after putting together his best offensive performance against Chicago on Friday (5-of-6 shooting, 12 points), but he didn't record a rebound over nearly 20 minutes.
The Celtics opened the second half with their core four starters alongside Glen Davis.