BROOKLYN, N.Y.For those hoping the Boston Celtics would offer up Avery Bradley's return for Christmas, the C's continue to be Scrooge-like in putting him back on the floor.
In fact, Bradley will not travel with the team during their upcoming West coast trip which means his return date in all likelihood will be Jan. 2 at home against Memphis.
"Physically, he's ready," said C's coach Doc Rivers. "The shoulder looks like it's strong enough. I just think, honestly we need him and could use him - I just didn't feel comfortable."
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Rivers added, "he's been out for six months. He's had 2 12 practices. I just didn't feel comfortable. I just thought, leave him at home, let him work out."
Bryan Doo, the Celtics strength and conditioning coach, will return to Boston to continue working with Bradley as well as Chris Wilcox who will be out for at least three weeks with a thumb injury.
"Usually B-Doo is with us," said River who added that the C's might have one practice during their entire West coast trip. "So we sent our strength coach back ... (Bradley) and Chris Wilcox will do two-a-days. So by the time we come back, he should be ready for that game."
Bradley isn't the only Celtics guard not playing tonight.
Leandro Barbosa, who has been away from the team attending to personal issues, might re-join the Celtics in time for Thursday's game against the Los Angeles Clippers.