Al

Jefferson

The Celtics can get out on the break, but have failed to play half-court basketball very well. They may need to take some chances with their frontcourt, including getting the ball to Raef LaFrentz more often, and accelerating the training of young Jefferson and Perkins to give the defense and rebounding more of an edge.

Thanks to him consistently running out of gas and the loss to the Warriors last night, the Celtics will probably practice today (originally an off day), in an effort to get the young guys in shape. Paul Pierce and Gary Payton may have something to say to Jefferson about this scenario, which could help to speed up the process of getting him into better shape.

It was something of a surprise that Jefferson wasn’t selected in the first place.

He won’t travel with the team on the upcoming road trip, and won’t play until he can practice at 100 percent.

He didn’t practice yesterday, or make the trip to Minnesota. Doc Rivers wants him to have a couple practices under his belt before playing again.

“I think Al’s saying two weeks,” coach Doc Rivers said. “One doctor is saying four, and one is saying six. I hope Al’s right.”

After initially encouraging news, it appers Jefferson will spend four full weeks out, as doctors originally predicted.

He’s listed as questionable for tonight’s game. Coach Doc Rivers is concerned, but says right now Jefferson is not a candidate for the IL, even with the team looking for a way to activate Delonte West.

Jefferson spent part of this season in China and will be playing in the Big 3 this summer. He enjoyed being able to be home for the holidays for the first time since high school, he said. Jefferson played 14 seasons in the NBA, most recently with the Pacers, made one All-NBA team and averaged 15.7 points with 8.4 rebounds in his career.

“I’ve got two choices,” said Jefferson, who is walking around on crutches. “I can lay around on my bed or I can lay around on my couch. So I rotate.” He has been riding a stationary bike with one leg and lifting weight with his upper body. Training camp starts Oct. 2, and don’t be surprised if Jefferson misses a practice here or there because of lingering ankle pain.