Newz Forum: BASKETBALL: Celtics guard Payton breaks thumb, misses preseason game

BOSTON -- Celtics point guard Gary Payton missed Wednesday's preseason game against Detroit because of a broken right thumb.

Payton, acquired from the Los Angeles Lakers in an offseason trade, was injured Monday in the fourth quarter of Boston's 95-88 loss to Cleveland.

The team said Payton, 36, will be re-evaluated daily and is expected to play in the Celtics' season opener against Philadelphia on Nov. 3.

Last season, Payton averaged 14.6 points, 5.5 assists and 34.5 minutes, his lowest totals in 11 seasons. He has career averages of 18 points, 7.2 assists and 36.8 minutes per game.

After being traded, Payton said he did not want to play in Boston or move his family from the West Coast, and missed an Aug. 13 deadline for his physical. But he reported to Celtics training camp on time.