WALTHAM, Mass. – The wait is (almost) over when it comes to Kelly Olynyk who could make his regular season debut as early as Sunday’s game against the Denver Nuggets.
Olynyk will be listed as questionable for the Nuggets game, a clear indicator that he is on the cusp of seeing his first action this season.
The 7-foot big man underwent offseason shoulder surgery in the spring with a return established at that time being the middle of this month.
Another sign that he was close to a return came about when the team assigned Olynyk to the Development League for one practice (it was at Boston’s practice facility in Waltham) on Friday (and off day for the rest of the team) to help aid Olynyk’s conditioning in case he played Sunday night.
“That’s going to be his and Eddie’s call (team head trainer Ed Lacerte),” Stevens said.
Olynyk’s return comes at a time when the Celtics could use as many bodies as possible in the frontcourt.
Al Horford (concussion) remains out for Sunday’s game. Ditto for Jae Crowder (ankle) who has been one of the Celtics’ top rebounders this season.
Although Olynyk is not known for his rebounding, having him on the floor can potentially help create more space for his teammates on the offensive end. And defensively, he gives Boston another big man who will be called upon to help limit an effective Nuggets frontcourt that ranks among the best in terms of rebounds and physical play.
“Like I said, he’s right around the corner here,” Stevens said.