In only 11 minutes yesterday at TD Garden, Wilcox scored 12 points and had five rebounds in the Celtics’ easier-than-expected 98-80 win over the Grizzlies. Wilcox is accomplishing exactly what the Celtics envisioned; he is playing strong post defense, picking off rebounds, and scoring around the basket.
In his last six games, Wilcox is averaging 6 points and 4.6 rebounds in just over 17 minutes as a backup to Jermaine O’Neal and Kevin Garnett. Yesterday, Wilcox ensured the Celtics gained an early lead with a 10-point first quarter.
“I just want to come out and play hard and bring energy,’’ he said. “It was definitely difficult but my body’s feeling better and I am able to get up and down the floor and make plays and get extra possessions.’’
When Wilcox was out because of the injuries, coach Doc Rivers used rookie Greg Stiemsma at center, and he made a splash, especially with blocks, but displayed some inexperience in key areas. Rivers now appears more comfortable with Wilcox and is expanding his role.
“Wilcox, in the last three games, he’s been absolutely off the charts,’’ Rivers said. “Terrific, with his energy. I mean, a lot of guys did a lot of good things vs. New York [Friday night], but I thought Wilcox was the reason we won that game. He’s just doing all the right things.’’
Allen returns
Tony Allen returned to Boston for the second time since signing a three-year deal with the Grizzlies when the Celtics only offered two. Allen was scheduled to start but was a late scratch with a sore knee and hip. He was replaced in the lineup by former Pittsburgh standout Sam Young.
Allen has emerged as a defensive player of the year candidate and has averaged 10.8 points per game and a career-best 81 percent from the line in his first full year of starting.
“I work hard every day,’’ Allen said. “When I come into a building, I look forward to competing. My will and my fight have been able to get me through a lot of this. That’s pretty much the key right there. I’m around a great group of talented guys. That’s just been my motivation.’’
