West, Gomes down and out

Judging from the injury update provided by coach Doc Rivers last night, the Celtics could be without Ryan Gomes (left foot sprain) and Delonte West for tomorrow night's game against the Bulls. Both players watched last night's 118-103 victory over the Sonics at TD Banknorth Garden. Despite suffering from headaches, West will attempt to practice this afternoon in Waltham, then determine whether it would be wise to play. Gomes will be reevaluated tomorrow.

"I actually don't know [when they'll be back]," said Rivers. "I can say Ryan is probably definitely out for Sunday. Del with the concussion thing, we just don't know. He's still having headaches. My guess is he'll be out for awhile. He hasn't done anything to know [where he stands]. If he can do anything, we'll find the answer out."

Rajon Rondo (20 points, three assists) replaced West in the starting lineup, and third-string point guard Sebastian Telfair was handed more playing time (5 points in 23 minutes). Rivers saw the West injury as an opportunity for Telfair. Even with diminished numbers at point guard and limited confidence in Telfair, Rivers hopes to see Rondo play more aggressive.

"I'd like him to get to the foul line more than he does," said Rivers. "I think he goes away from contact too much. I would love him to get contact. With his speed, I think he should be on the line all game, and he's not."

Gerald Green provided another change to the starting lineup, playing at shooting guard and defending the troublesome Ray Allen. The fact that Rivers would insert Green into the starting lineup and trust him to help contain Allen speaks volumes of Green's progress. Allen had 22 points and was 2 for 9 on 3-pointers.

"I don't have a lot of choice, but I feel better about [Green's defense]," said Rivers. "He has his ups and downs. He's trying to play with better focus, which is very good. His knowledge has increased. I think he's come a long way."

Green appreciates the confidence and credits his teammates for his improved defense.

"I feel pretty confident," said Green. "Coach has been stressing defense this whole year. I have to give a lot of credit to Paul [ Pierce], Tony [ Allen], all the great defensive players that are on the team."

A two-week stint with Austin Toros of the NBA Development League was a learning experience for Allan Ray. He learned to appreciate the opportunity to play in the NBA, and experienced the death of Toros coach Dennis Johnson, learning about Celtic Pride in the process. "To see what guys are going through down there, it makes you open your eyes and work harder," said Ray. "It makes me appreciate my time up here with the Celtics. When [Johnson] and I did talk, it was about the Toros and the team and playing. One thing I remember about him, I practiced twice with him and he had a good sense of humor. He was always joking around, especially with the guys. I thought he was a good teacher." . . . Former Celtic Danny Fortson was suspended for two games by the Sonics for missing Thursday's practice in Boston . . . Tomorrow's game has been changed from 3:30 to 6 p.m.

Shira Springer can be reached at springer@globe.com.