Tue Jun 17 13:21:36 2008

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Perkins' Game 6 status a game-time decision

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Boston, MA (Sports Network) - Boston Celtics head coach Doc Rivers will make a game-time decision on the availability of center Kendrick Perkins for Game 6 of the NBA Finals on Tuesday.

Perkins left the Celtics' dramatic 97-91 comeback victory in Game 4 after suffering a strained left shoulder when trying to block a shot by the Lakers' Lamar Odom in the third quarter. The center was held out of Game 5, and his presence in the post was missed in Boston's 103-98 setback.

Boston can close out its 17th championship on its home floor on Tuesday, but the absence of Perkins can put a delay on the Celtics' first title since 1986.

Though he averaged just 4.5 points and 3.5 rebounds in the opening four games of the series, Perkins' defensive prowess against the Lakers' frontcourt helped the Celtics take a commanding 3-1 series lead.

Leon Powe, who started in place of Perkins in Game 5, and P.J. Brown are viable options for Rivers if his regular center is a no-go.