Szczerbiak gives the ready signal

PHILADELPHIA -- Wally Szczerbiak tested his sprained left ankle during the Celtics' light practice yesterday at Philadelphia Community College. But it wasn't until after the workout, when Szczerbiak dunked on rookie Allen Ray during a game of one-on-one that it became clear the small forward would be ready to play tonight against Philadelphia.

Upon learning of the dunk, coach Doc Rivers said, "There's your answer."

Barring any unexpected setbacks this morning at shootaround, Szczerbiak said he will be ready to go.

Delonte West, meanwhile, had some bruising and soreness after a handful of hard falls against the Knicks Monday night, so he did not take the court with his teammates yesterday. One fall in particular hurt his tailbone.

He lifted weights and rode a bike yesterday to work up a light sweat. He expects to be ready for tonight's game.

"My body's just banged up right now," said West. "It's nothing that's going to keep me from playing."

In another encouraging sign, Kendrick Perkins was out of the immobilizing boot he had been wearing on his left foot because of his plantar fasciitis.

Like West, Perkins worked out separately from the team in the weight room.

Remixed Sixers

In the immediate aftermath of the victory over New York, Rivers briefly considered canceling practice, but the Celtics worked out for almost 90 minutes yesterday. It was not taxing, but it seemed Rivers wanted to send a message: On the verge of winning three games in a row for the second time this season, now is not the time to let up. Besides, without Allen Iverson in the lineup, the Sixers become more unpredictable.

"Philly had an identity with Iverson for such a long time," said Paul Pierce. "Now, it's a whole different team. It's probably more balanced. [Chris Webber] is the main option, but there is a chance for all of them to do something."

Rivers observed that Webber is playing as hard as ever and getting more involved, Andre Iguodala has become the aggressor, and Kyle Korver is dangerous near the 3-point line. Also, Rivers expects the Sixers to play with a lot of energy as they attempt to end an eight-game losing streak.

"I think they're actually a more dangerous team [without Iverson]," said West. "With Iverson, you know he's going to get this many touches and this many shots. The defense is focused on limiting his touches and his shots. Now, a number of guys are capable of putting up shots."

Say cheese

Treating his teammates to some famous Philadelphia food, Pierce ordered 30 cheesesteaks from Jim's for a post-practice snack. It wasn't long before the 13 players attending the workout ate all the sandwiches. "When in Philly," joked Pierce, "do as the Phillians do."