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Boston Celtics head coach Brad Stevens remains cautiously optimistic that star guard Rajon Rondo could return as soon as the team's season opener on October 29th.
An evaluation of Rondo's fractured left hand last week showed progress. However, Rondo still hasn't been given clearance to resume contact with just over a week until the Celtics tip-off against the Brooklyn Nets.
"I don't know. I still haven't had any contact yet," Rondo said , via Chris Forsberg of ESPN.com, when asked about returning by opening night. "The opener is a little bit over a week away. I don't want to set goals; I just want to go as my hand heals."
Rondo added that it has been just three weeks since his surgery, reminding reporters that the bone in his left hand hasn't fully healed yet. The team initially projected his return timetable in the 6-8 weeks range, but Rondo has made it clear that he'd like to come back sooner.
That will likely come down to Rondo's personal comfort level once he is finally cleared to practice and resume contact.
"It doesn't bother me at all when I dribble the ball, catch the ball," Rondo said.
"But it's night and day from trying to brace myself hitting the floor or going into the lane and somebody smacks my hand."
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