Sonics’ Durant Uncertain For Opener With Sprained Ankle

In the SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER, Gary Washburn writes “the Sonics confirmed Wednesday what was initially thought, that shooting guard Kevin Durant has a sprained left ankle and will not play in the Sonics' final preseason game Friday against Phoenix. Durant is uncertain for the season opener next Wednesday against Denver. An MRI and X-rays taken Wednesday revealed no fracture and Durant will be re-evaluated next week.”

Kobe Suffers Mild Wrist Injury

In the L.A. DAILY NEWS, Elliot Teaford writes “add another name to the roll of the injured. Kobe Bryant injured his right wrist during the Lakers' 21-point exhibition loss to the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night. He received treatment Wednesday and said he hoped he could play in Friday's exhibition finale against the Sacramento Kings in Las Vegas. Bryant has spent much of training camp monitoring tendinitis in his left knee, but his wrist injury is the first serious setback he's suffered this month.”

Celtics defeat Raptors in Rome

Anticipation was definitely worth the wait.

The new-look Celtics got big efforts from newcomers Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen in Saturday's 89-85 preseason win over the Toronto Raptors at PalaLottomattica.

Garnett and Allen looked good in their Boston debuts, scoring 19 and 10 points, respectively. Garnett also grabbed a game-high 16 rebounds. Boston's Paul Pierce led all a game-high 21 points. Guard Eddie House also scored 14 points in the victory.

more on this @www.nba.com/celtics