Kemba Walker Set to Return Soon

The Boston Celtics received some good news to compliment their nice run to start the season - Kemba Walker has been cleared to resume practice. 

#NEBHInjuryReport Kemba Walker has been cleared to begin practicing with the team.

Further updates on his status will be provided as appropriate.

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) January 8, 2021

Even without Walker, the Celtics have gotten off to a hot start, going 7-3 in their first 10 games largely on the play of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum - both of whom are putting together career years. Walker hasn't played since the Celtics playoff run ended in the bubble. He took a stem cell injection in his left knee before the start of training camp last month and the team set him up on a 12-week strengthening program. By all accounts, he is pain-free. 

Brad Stevens says of Kemba Walker, "He's been pain-free for a couple of months."

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) January 8, 2021

After Walker clears the first hurdle of getting on the practice court, the next step is to go through live practices with teammates. According to Stevens: 

I don’t think he’s too far. He looks great. He feels great probably the best he’s felt since he’s been here. … Hopefully he’ll be back soon, but we’re not gonna rush that.

With the C's off to a hot start, and the prospect of a returning All-Star caliber player, the rest of the East better watch out. 

Photo Credit: Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire