Celtics remain 'hopeful' Thompson will play in season opener

Will Tristan Thompson take the court in his new team's season opener? David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Celtics remain 'hopeful' Tristan Thompson will play season opener vs. Bucks

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 12/22/20

Boston Celtics center Tristan Thompson practiced with the team on Saturday after missing both preseason games with a quad injury. However, his current status for the season opener still is unclear.

Celtics head coach Brad Stevens said Tuesday the team remains hopeful Thompson will be able to play Wednesday, according to Chris Grenham of Forbes, but an update sometime before Wednesday will make his status more clear.

Brad Stevens said the Celtics are hopeful Tristan Thompson can play tomorrow, but his status remains uncertain.

Should have an official update from the team later this afternoon.
— Chris Grenham (@chrisgrenham) December 22, 2020

Thompson hasn't played a game in nine months after finishing the 2019-20 campaign with the Cleveland Cavaliers. So if he does return on Wednesday against the Milwaukee Bucks, he'll be on a minutes restriction.

The 29-year-old had one of his best seasons for the Cavaliers last year, averaging 12 points, 10.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game while shooting 51.2% of the field and 39.1% from deep.

Boston made it a point to sign Thompson this offseason in an effort to boost its rebounding and defensive efforts. It was revealed this week that both Jayson Tatum and Kemba Walker reached out to him to encourage him to sign with the Celtics.

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