Bass, O'Neal out; Dooling and Bradley in for Celtics

February 12, 2012|By Gary Dzen, Globe Staff

By Gary Dzen, Globe Staff

Brandon Bass (knee) and Jermaine O'Neal (shoulder) will miss this afternoon's game with the Bulls. Their absences make a tall task against a big, physical Bulls team even taller. Bass's absence is of particular concern, as Celtics coach Doc Rivers said the power forward could miss about 10 days after swelling in his right knee failed to dissipate like the team expected.

"It is [a surprise]," said Rivers. "After the Toronto game there was really nothing said. Eddie [Lacerte] called me this morning and told me that he was out, and out for a while."

Chris Wilcox will start at center. Rivers said the Celtics will use Greg Stiemsma a little bit but will most likely use a smaller lineup.

"We probably have to go small at some point just with what he have left," said Rivers.

The Celtics will get help in the backcourt today with the return of Keyon Dooling. Avery Bradley is also available and is "100 percent healthy", according to Rivers.