Injuries in Indy

INDIANAPOLIS -- Aren't shamrocks and leprechauns supposed to bring good luck? At this rate the Celtics are going to have to think about altering their team symbols.

The only thing left to strike the team this season is a plague. A season that started with the death of team doyen Red Auerbach has degenerated from there with an uncanny streak of injuries and maladies.

Kendrick Perkins played tonight in Boston's 105-98 loss to the Indiana Pacers with the flu, despite having a 101-degree temperature all day, and Ryan Gomes hurt his back and right elbow when he was called for a charge in the fourth quarter, colliding with Pacers forward Shawne Williams.

"We'll see tomorrow," said Gomes. "Hopefully, it's not too bad. I'm just a little banged up right now."

The Celtics do not practice tomorrow. They went straight from here to Atlanta (as will I). Doc Rivers said the team would watch the final round of The Masters in their hotel room.

Delonte West (left ankle) didn't even make the trip with the team, which was a surprise, but Rivers said West could still play against the Hawks on Tuesday. Paul Pierce did make the trip. Al Jefferson did not make the trip.

A few notes from the game: Rajon Rondo had a career-high and Celtics season-high seven steals... Leon Powe scored a career-high 15 points in 28 minutes...Allan Ray tied his career high with 22 points.