With Romeo Langford’s latest injury, the Houdini believes it is appropriate for Boston Celtics fans to be concerned over the rookie wing’s long-term durability.
Since being selected 14th overall by the Boston Celtics in this year’s NBA Draft, rookie wing Romeo Langford has been met with questions and concerns from fans and media alike. Shooting just 27% from 3, while also playing a position the C’s are currently stocked with talent at, Danny Ainge‘s decision to select the 20-year-old was a bit of a shocker, to say the least.
Now, with the news that the first-year pro is yet again ailing from an injury, it appears another worrisome query has risen pertaining to Langford: is he doomed to be another talented, yet injury-prone player?
Sunday, during a game against the Long Island Nets, Langford — playing with the Maine Red Claws– drove hard to the basket for an acrobatic layup at the rim but, unfortunately, landed awkwardly on his right foot, resulting in him crashing to the ground and grimacing in pain. He would then be helped off the court, as he was unable to put pressure on his foot, ending his productive outing (14 points and three boards on 64% shooting).
Here's the drive where Langford appeared to injured his ankle. Was helped off the floor following the play. Had 14 points in 17 minutes before the injury. pic.twitter.com/oFgDPtM5bJ
— Chris Grenham (@chrisgrenham) December 1, 2019
To Boston Celtics fans, seeing Romeo Langford sidelined is nothing new. Prior to being drafted, the talented two-guard underwent thumb surgery to repair a ligament tear in his right hand sustained early on in his one-and-done season with the Indiana Hoosiers; the recovery period would bleed into Celtics summer-league, sidelining him for the entirety of the tournament.
Upon officially returning to full participation, in training camp the rookie tweaked his groin, causing him to miss ample time in the preseason. After coming back from this ailment, during a blowout preseason win over the Cleveland Cavaliers, Langford slipped on an apparent wet spot on the hardwood, causing him to crash to the floor with his leg underneath him and, as a result, missed the next few contests — including regular season games.
At first glance, this list of injuries in such a short timespan may be a cause for concern for Boston Celtics fans. Unfortunately, however, in Billy Mays fashion, I must say to you: “But wait, there’s more!”
During his high school days at New Albany, Indiana, Langford saw his fair share of time riding the pine due to health related issues. In his junior season, he sat out two weeks due to a pinky injury on his shooting hand. His senior season, he missed time due to yet another finger injury. Despite not being able to legally purchase alcohol yet, Romeo Langford has seemingly showcased similar durability trends to that of a 15-year NBA veteran.
However, though it may appear I have a negative opinion about the rookie wing, this piece was not written with the intention to slander him.
His collegiate career, despite playing through his thumb ailment, was quite successful statistically, as he managed to put up 16.5 points and 5.4 rebounds on 45% shooting from the field. During his time with the Red Claws thus far, the rookie has impressed on both ends of the floor, averaging 13.5 points and three blocks a game on 59% shooting from the field.
To make things very clear, this is not a “hit piece” on Romeo Langford. If he can manage to stay healthy, it appears he could be a very serviceable asset for the Boston Celtics as soon as this season. Unfortunately, however, just by looking at his track record, this is a big if.
No word has been made on how many — if any — games the rookie will miss. However, judging by his reaction to the injury, it would appear he will be out for a few contests.
We here at Hardwood Houdini are truly hoping these ailments during Romeo Langford’s short career thus far are just tiny bumps at the beginning of a long and successful career.
Still, with this current list of injuries, it certainly could be seen as a cause for concern.