Jermaine O’Neal Expected To Debut Sunday

Posted by Brian Robb on Oct 9, 2010 100654 commentshttp%3A%2F%2Fcelticshub.com%2F2010%2F10%2F09%2Fjermaine-oneal-expected-to-debut-sunday%2FJermaine+O%27Neal+Expected+To+Debut+Sunday2010-10-09+22%3A26%3A26Brian+Robbhttp%3A%2F%2Fcelticshub.com%2F%3Fp%3D10065

Positive news out of Waltham today as Jermaine O’Neal returned to action for the first time in days since injuring his hamstring early last week. Chris Forsberg of ESPN Boston has us covered as always:

“I’m tired today, but you gotta start somewhere,” said O’Neal. “I’ve gotta be able to build. My hamstring felt good, it felt really good. I’m looking forward to getting back on the court since I haven’t been able to play with guys in the real uniforms yet.”

Doc shared the optimism on Jermaine’s progress, noting he didn’t let up on the guys at all during the two hour practice. He did stress however, that O’Neal would be a gametime decision.

Meanwhile, in related news Shaquille O’Neal sat out the fesitivies in Waltham to give some rest to his hip. Doc stressed it was more of a precaution than anything:

“It’s just his hips,” said Rivers. ” That will be an issue on and off at times [throughout the season]. He got rest today.”

Now here’s my question on this situation. Was this a strategic rest? Or just a excuse for Doc and company to get a complete look at O’Neal running with the first unit for an uninterrupted practice session?

They’ve obviously seen what Shaq can do with those guys in the past week with Jermaine sitting out, but having to rotate both O’Neals throughout a practice likely makes it tough either guy to gain a real rhythm with the top unit.

I still maintain that when this is all said and done, Jermaine will be the guy that gets the nod opening night (health permitting), but tomorrow’s starter at center could be our first possible indication of who has the inside track thus far. Given Shaq has been the healthier body thus far, I wouldn’t be shocked at all if he is the choice, but this will be something to keep an eye on.

In more good news, Delonte West ran through the entire practice without any problems after leaving Thursday night’s game early with back spasms.

Rookie Avery Bradley also made his practice debut with the C’s, getting the green light to participate for the first time since his ankle surgery this past summer. No word yet on when he might be cleared to take part in exhibition game action.

That’s all for now, I’ll be at the Garden tomorrow night giving you complete coverage for the C’s true home debut this year.