Jeff Green recently let reporters in on a secret: Playing every regular season game would mean a lot to him.
Jeff Green recently let reporters in on a secret: Playing every regular season game would mean a lot to him. While some Boston Celtics teammates rested sore bodies, Green remained in the lineup every night despite a growing collection of bumps and bruises.
The forward accomplished his goal Wednesday night, scoring nine points with six rebounds over 17 minutes of a 114-90 loss to the Toronto Raptors. Though the contest was more a necessity than a desire, at least judging by the way Boston performed, Green successfully managed to suit up for all 81 games after missing all of last season due to heart surgery.
“I am truly blessed,” said Green, according to the Boston Herald. “I mean, coming back from heart surgery one year ago to play every game, and play the way I did, and get better as the year went on, was all I wanted. I played the whole season after heart surgery. I just wanted to get better.”
Green didn't just return to prior form; he actually played the best basketball of his life.
“I hope he wins most improved or something, because that is amazing to go through, with the way he’s been playing," said teammate Avery Bradley. "It shows that he has a strong heart.”
Blessed to have played every game this yr..the real season starts now..#CelticNation OH WEERDD!!!
— Jeff Green (@unclejeffgreen) April 18, 2013