"The Celtics continue to play shorthanded when it comes to big men. Shaquille O'Neal (hip flexor) will miss the game against the Cavaliers tonight at TD Garden and his status for the team's visit to Portland Thursday has not been determined.

Jermaine O'Neal (knee) remains out and Kendrick Perkins (knee surgery), who participated fully in yesterday's light practice, is not ready to return. That means Semih Erden likely will make his sixth start of the season at center.

Shaquille O'Neal was injured in the first quarter Friday night against Utah and missed the Celtics' 85-83 loss at Washington Saturday night, the team's first defeat in five games with Erden starting."