The Boston Celtics will be the opponent for Andrew Bynum’s first NBA game of 2014.
Indiana Pacers head coach Frank Vogel told reporters that Bynum, who signed with the team Feb. 1 but has yet to suit up for a game, will play Tuesday night against the Celtics. The former All-Star will back up Roy Hibbert at the center position, replacing the injured Ian Mahinmi.
“Once he’s out there and he’s playing, he’s a heck of a basketball player,” Vogel said of Bynum, via Candace Buckner of The Indianapolis Star.
Bynum was a standout on two Lakers championship teams, but he has been unable to stay on the court since being traded from Los Angeles after the 2011-12 season. The big man failed to appear in a game for the Philadelphia 76ers last season, and he was traded from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Chicago Bulls in January after being suspended for conduct detrimental to the team.
Bynum appeared in 24 games for the Cavs this season before his suspension, averaging 8.4 points and 5.3 rebounds per game.
The Pacers hold a one-game lead over the Miami Heat for first place in the Eastern Conference entering Tuesday night despite losing their last four games.
Photo via Facebook/Indiana Pacers
