Boston Celtics head coach Brad Stevens has just confirmed that the team will be without the services of point guard Shane Larkin for the entire Eastern Conference Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Here’s the Tweet from Celtics reporter Jay King:
Shane Larkin ruled out for Games 1 and 2 and unlikely to play at all this series, per Brad Stevens.
— Jay King (@ByJayKing) May 12, 2018
During the first two rounds of the Playoffs, Larkin averaged 3.7 points, one rebound, 1.8 assists, and 0.5 steals in 14 minutes per contest. Although these numbers are not exactly impressive, the loss of yet another player from the already depleted roster will still have a significant impact on the upcoming series.
One of the main factors behind the unprecedented success of the Celtics this year is the emergence of third-year guard Terry Rozier. Scary Terry has been simply outstanding after taking over the reigns as the starting point guard in the wake of Kyrie Irving’s season-ending knee surgery.
His primary backup is Marcus Smart who also logs heavy minutes night in and night out. Larkin was the team’s third-string PG and his loss would leave the rotation on thinner ice than Stevens would have hoped for.
One good thing about having to lose so many players because of injuries throughout the season is that the Celtics have gotten used to it by now. Brad Stevens is a maestro and his players have stepped up when called upon.
The banged-up Celtics have proven their resolve and seem to only get stronger as the post-season gets deeper. They will however need to dig deep and muster all the strength they have as they face the mighty LeBron James and the Cavs in what should be an epic battle for the Eastern Conference championship.
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