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A scare for Pierce in practice

Print | Comments () Posted by Julian Benbow, Globe Staff January 17, 2010 07:39 PM

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WALTHAM -- Just as he was starting to improve after undergoing two surgeries and missing four games because of a knee infection, Paul Pierce collided with Shelden Williams at the end of practice today, banging his knee in the spot where he had the procedures.

The Celtics captain left the court to have the knee wrapped in ice.

Williams said, “We got tangled up, that’s it, nothing big. He went out on a screen, I showed, we got tangled up in our legs. It hit more of my shin, so I’m not sure if it hit his knee or what.’’

Since returning to the lineup Jan. 6 against Miami, Pierce has played 40 or more minutes four times in six games. He’s averaged 19.5 points this month.

“It’s just amazing the luck right now with things like that,’’ said coach Doc Rivers. “That’s why he was so upset. He said, ‘Man, that’s right on the spot that was starting to feel better.' "

The Celtics play Dirk Nowitzki and the Mavericks Monday night at TD Garden.