NEWARK, N.J.The Boston Celtics plan to find ways to rest core players down the stretch, but this isn't necessarily what they had in mind.
With Ray Allen (right ankle) already ruled out for Sunday's game against Charlotte, Celtics coach Doc Rivers said Paul Pierce may also be out because of an injury.
Near the end of Boston's 94-82 win at New Jersey, Pierce said he went up for a rebound and landed awkwardly which resulted in him jamming his left big toe.
"Hopefully I'll rest it and ice and see how it responds," said Pierce, who added that there have been conversations about him missing a game or so before the playoffs.
Rivers doesn't believe Pierce's toe injury is something to be concerned about, but added, "if there's anything, we'll shut him down."
Pierce, who had 17 points, five rebounds and four assists against the Nets, has played in all but the first three games of the season. He was out at that time with a right heel injury that occurred shortly before the start of training camp.
If Pierce does not play against Charlotte on Sunday, look for Rivers to go with either Mickael Pietrus, Sasha Pavlovic or Marquis Daniels at the starting small forward position.