Celtics' Pierce may have broken left foot

As the Boston Celtics keep growing older, the injuries keep on mounting. In order for the Celtics to get back to the NBA Finals, they will need a healthy roster heading into the second half of the season.

Pierce, who was hurt Monday in a 99-88 win at Washington, could return against Orlando after missing just two games with a strained left foot.

Pierce watched from the bench in street clothes Wednesday night as the Celtics beat the Miami Heat 107-102. He is not expected to play when Boston plays its second of three consecutive home games Friday night against the New Jersey Nets.

Pierce was hurt when Washington's Caron Butler fell on him. Pierce also missed five games from Dec. 25 to Jan. 2 with a right knee infection.

Paul Pierce was averaging 18.9 points, and said the foot has been improving daily. Pierce, 32, was chosen as a reserve on the Eastern Conference team in the NBA All-Star game Feb. 14 and said even if he can't play, he will participate in the 3-point shooting contest.

Backup guard Marquis Daniels returned to practice Thursday after missing 27 games with a thumb injury that required surgery. Rivers said he doubts Daniels will play Friday.