WALTHAMOne of Rajon Rondo's favorite above-the-rim targets Chris Wilcox, may return to action Wednesday night against New Orleans.
Wilcox, still on the mend from a right thumb injury, was in uniform for Boston's 100-89 win over Charlotte on Monday but did not play (coaches decision).
"He could've played (against Charlotte) but we really didn't want him to," said C's coach Doc Rivers. "Eddie (Lacerte, the C's head trainer) didn't want him to."
Because of Wilcox's history of injuries, Boston is being overly cautious in bringing him back into the fold too soon.
Wilcox acknowledges playing the waiting game has been difficult at times, but the pain of not being able to get out and perform is lessened when the team is winning.
"At the end of the day, you definitely want to be out there and help," Wilcox said. "Just take it one day at a time. Right now, we're rolling."
The Celtics (20-17) have won six straight in large part because of the second unit.
Boston Celtics
Wilcox, who was Kevin Garnett's backup prior to his injury, has seen his minutes distributed between rookie Jared Sullinger and veteran Jason Collins.
As far as how much -- if at all -- he'll play against the Hornets, both Wilcox and the C's say that remains up in the air.
"He'll be available tomorrow for sure," Rivers said. "Whether he plays or not, we'll see."
Prior to his injury, Wilcox was leading the Celtics in dunks (20) while playing limited minutes.
Most of his above-the-rim flushes came on alley-oop tosses from Rajon Rondo.
With the Celtics playing better defensively, there are more opportunities than ever to get out and run in transition which is where Wilcox has been most effective.
"Like I said, I just want to do whatever I can to help this team win," Wilcox said. "For me, that's what this is all about: winning."