WASHINGTONRajon Rondo loves the fact that the Boston Celtics were able to hold on for a 100-94 win in Washington.
He just wishes he could have been part of it.
Rondo, out with a right wrist injury for the second straight game, said it is feeling better. Whether that's good enough to play on Monday against the Orlando Magic, remains to be seen.
Rondo said he's "day-to-day," adding that the injury is healing. The plan right now, Rondo said, is for him to play against the Magic. But that won't happen until he gets the green light from the C's medical staff.
No Rondo means more minutes for Avery Bradley, who made his second career start - both filling in for Rondo. Bradley's line from Sunday's win - three points on 1-for-8 shooting with almost as many assists (7) as turnovers (6) - was not all that impressive.
Rivers had a different take on Bradley's play.
"He played terrific for us," Rivers said.
While "terrific" might be a bit of a stretch, Bradley was on the floor in the game's closing moments, and even made a big play.
Leading 97-94 with 22.8 seconds to play, Bradley made the first of two free throws that made it a two-possession game.
"It's good for him (Bradley) to get this type of experience," Celtics Paul Pierce told Comcast SportsNet moments after the win. "Doc (Rivers) has really been on him. He hasn't had a lot of experience, and a lot of crucial moments in game. This is a good experience for him to get out there, so when he gets back in these type of situations, he's ready."
Bradley sees his expanded role with Rondo out as an opportunity to continue his growth as an NBA player.
"I just think with each game, I'll keep improving and improving," Bradley told CSNNE.com. "The coaches sitting down with me, they just want to help.
He added, "I'm going to play within the game, try to get our team in sets and really just learn. Every chance I get, I want to make the most of it. This is an opportunity for me, and I'm ready."