“It’s killing me sitting back here looking from the sidelines,’’ said West, who had played in five games following a 10-game suspension to begin the season. “Honestly, I have no idea [about the All-Star break], but I am going to do the best I can to get back before then.’’
West said he needs to regain movement and then begin strengthening exercises. He has been able to take shots because he is lefthanded.
His first priorities, he said, are “picking up weights and catching a basketball. Right now, my biggest fear is falling and landing on it. Today is Day 1 and a good day. The cast is off and it’s all uphill from here.’’
West has been around the team during home games and has remained optimistic throughout the recovery. With the Celtics battered by injuries in the backcourt — Rajon Rondo’s ankle, Nate Robinson’s sore feet — West’s versatility will be sorely needed for the stretch run.
“It feels great [to have the cast off],’’ said West. “Also, I got a chance to wash it today, so the smell of Cheetos is gone.
“It’s big for my morale, to look down and not see that cast. Actually, I almost put my jersey on today. I had my shorts on and everything and got a workout in. The day will be here before you know it and I will be back out there on the floor.’’
If Von Wafer is on the Celtics roster tonight, his contract will be guaranteed for the rest of the season. That doesn’t mean they can’t waive him after today, but if they do, he will be paid for the entire season.
Players such as Rodney Carney (Golden State), John Lucas III (Chicago), and Sundiata Gaines (Minnesota) were waived yesterday before the deadline.
Celtics president Danny Ainge indicated that a decision would not be made until today, but Wafer’s season-best 10-point, 6-rebound effort in Monday’s win over the Timberwolves may have helped his cause.
West also has a nonguaranteed deal, but all indications are the Celtics plan to keep him for the rest of the season.
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