Jermaine O'Neal considering his options

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BOSTONThe Boston Celtics have no timetable on when Jermaine O'Neal will return to the lineup this seasonor at all for that matter.

O'Neal has a wrist injury that will eventually require surgery that would most likely end his season. Celtics head coach Doc Rivers said O'Neal will consult with additional doctors, and let them know what course of action he'll take.

In addition to surgery, O'Neal is also considering having a cortisone shot which would keep him out for about two weeks.

"He's thinking through his options," Rivers said. "We're just going to wait and see what he decides."

Without O'Neal, the C's have gone with a smaller lineup that includes 6-foot-8 Brandon Bass at power forward and Kevin Garnett, the team's usual power forward, sliding over to play center.

The lineup has worked well thus far, but tonight's game will be Garnett's first major challenge defensively.

New Jersey center Brook Lopez has been out most of the season with a broken foot, but has returned to action for the Net's last three games.

He's coming off a 38-point performance in New Jersey's 93-92 upset win at Dallas.

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