Mickael Pietrus returns against Atlanta Hawks; Rearing to contribute towards Boston Celtics’ playoffs charge - NBA Update
When the Boston Celtics forward Mickael Pietrus suffered a grade 3 concussion in a win over the Philadelphia 76ers last month, many were unsure whether he would be able to return to action by the end of the regular season. However
Pietrus, who has had a career full of surprises, gave everybody another surprise when he returned to action against the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday.
He did keep his return a secret until the post game interviews. Coach Doc Rivers said in his pre match press conference that Pietrus is fit and will be playing a minor role in the game.
Pietrus who had cleared all tests required by the NBA on Wednesday and was all set to play, but not more then 5 or 10 minutes However, Pietrus ended the match by playing 28:49 minutes while also scoring 8 points and 6 rebounds
and never really looked tired throughout. He also had a clutch 3-pointer late in the game to lift the Celtics past the Hawks in back to back wins.
Pietrus`s return was of significant value for Boston, who going into the game, were without Ray Allen. The Frenchman was given a standing ovation from the Celtics fans when he first entered the game late in the first quarter.
Pietrus, who had to be stretchered out of the arena against the Sixers, was full of energy on his comeback. Even though he does not recall much from the night he got injured, he was very happy to return to the court and in his
post match interview was all fun and jokes.
"I feel good, extremely good," Pietrus said after the win. "No more concussion, it's behind me now."
Pietrus then went on to describe the two weeks he was injured as very tough on him.
"I was laid up for two weeks, I couldn't do much," Pietrus said. "I was trying to rest my brain. I could not watch TV, I could not do anything. It's not like an injury that you hurt your knee or your ankle -- it's your brain, so
you have to get your brain right. That's basically your life."
He further went on to add that every time he steps on the court, he is looking to add another championship to the Celtics repertoire which has been his mission ever since he has been with Boston.
That’s all I’ve had on my mind since I’ve been here,” Pietrus said
Celtics who have 18 Championships are currently one of the strongest contenders for the title, having played an excellent second half of the season.
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