BOSTON, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- The Boston Celtics have learned that forward-center Raef LaFrentz will be out for the season because of right knee tendinitis.
LaFrentz, acquired from Dallas in the deal for Antoine Walker, has averaged career lows of 7.8 points and 4.7 rebounds in 17 games.
"Right now we're less of a basketball team," said Coach Jim O'Brien. "Guys are going to have to step up."
LaFrentz, who also was sidelined from Nov. 14-28 with the same ailment and is scheduled for season-ending surgery on Monday, averaged 9.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.3 blocked shots in 69 games last season with Dallas after signing a six-year contract worth $69 million.
The Celtics, who stretched their season-high winning streak to five games on Saturday, host Dallas on Wednesday. Walker is averaging a double-double for the Mavericks.
To take LaFrentz's roster spot, the Celtics have activated teenage rookie forward Kendrick Perkins from the injured list. Perkins was placed on the IL prior to the start of the season. He also had right knee tendinitis.
