Celtics' Pierce won't play against Knicks

New York, NY – Boston Celtics forward Paul Pierce will miss opening matchup with the New York Knicks due to a bone bruise in his heel.

Pierce referred to himself as "day-to-day" prior to the game, adding, "If there was a chance I could play I'd be out there."

Sasha Pavlovic will start in Pierce's place. The ninth-year guard/forward will likely be forced to defend Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony -- a career 24.8 points-per-game scorer.

The Celtics are already thin in the frontcourt, as forward Jeff Green will miss the entire season due to an aortic aneurysm. He is scheduled to undergo heart surgery January 9.