Celtics big man Al Horford has been upgraded to questionable after previously being listed as doubtful for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Heat, Boston announced (via Twitter).
Horford entered the NBA’s health and safety protocols on Tuesday, causing him to miss Game 1’s loss to Miami. Head coach Ime Udoka told reporters, including Jared Weiss of The Athletic (Twitter link), that Horford didn’t feel sick when he evidently tested positive for COVID-19.
“He’s feeling fine. He’s feeling OK since that day. Just tests and protocols he has to pass,” Udoka said.
If Horford registered a positive COVID-19 test, he would have to remain in the protocols for at least five days unless he records two consecutive negative tests at least 24 hours apart. Considering he was upgraded to questionable, it seems like he may have returned at least one negative result.
The 35-year-old had a nice season for Boston, averaging 10.2 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.3 blocks on .467/.336/.842 shooting in 69 regular-season games. He’s upped those averages in the postseason, averaging 13 points, 9.4 boards, 3.4 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.4 blocks on .524/.451/.833 shooting in 11 games.
Game 2 of the ECF takes place Thursday in Miami at 7:30 p.m. CT. If Horford is available, he figures to return to the starting lineup and provide much-needed frontcourt depth to the Celtics, which trail the series 1-0.
More must-reads: