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Boston Celtics News: Al Horford ‘Has Not Advanced’ In Concussion Protocol

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan

Oct 29, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) stands on the court in the game against the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center. The Celtics defeated the Hornets 104-98. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) stands on the court in the game against the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center. The Celtics defeated the Hornets 104-98. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Boston Celtics star Al Horford is not advancing as expected in the NBA’s concussion protocol. 

There was some hope that Al Horford would be ready to play on Wednesday night, but that hope may be put on hold.  According to Boston Celtics head coach Brad Stevens, the versatile big man has not advanced in the league’s concussion protocol.

Horford, who missed the last three games after suffering a concussion last week, was not able to practice with the team on Monday.  That is not good news for a team in dire need of big bodies and a defensive presence.

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"“He has not advanced in the protocol, based on what I’ve been told,” Stevens said after practice Monday.  “I have not gotten anything deeper than that but he di not do anything with our team today.”"

The team will not practice before their game on Wednesday night against the Wizards, so there may not be a good indication as to his playing status until game time.  When asked about whether his star player is showing signs of recovery, the Celtics coach didn’t have much to offer.

"“I don’t know what that means yet,” Stevens said.  “I’m gonna go find out.  But I think that not advancing is telling that the symptoms have been at least prolonged through [Sunday].”"

While the team has struggled defensively in Horford’s absence, making sure that he is healthy is the main concern of the team.  The good news, however, is Boston will start getting players like Jae Crowder and Kelly Olynyk back.  When they do, fans should have more of an indication as to what kind of team they have.

In the meantime, it means more playing time for center Tyler Zeller and rookie forward Jaylen Brown.  The first-round draft choice has shown early that he belongs in the NBA, but has struggled some defensively.  With the increased playing time, he should improve.

And until those player are able to return, Stevens is focused on instilling a defensive mindset in a team that has given up 118 points per game in their 3 losses this young season.

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