Ainge on Big Show: 'We're not even close'

Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge made his weekly appearance on The Big Show Thursday and was asked about the status of Rajon Rondo for Thursday's game against the Nets in Brooklyn. Rondo injured his right ankle in the third quarter of Wednesday's win over the Jazz and did not return to the game.

"Not sure yet, we'll wait until he gets here and get some treatment and we'll see," Ainge said. "There hasn't been any decision made yet. ... He just tweaked his ankle last night and we don't know the severity of it yet. We'll see when he gets over here tonight."

Ainge told The Big Show last week that the Celtics "hadn't really figured out" Jeff Green and characterized his play as "inconsistent." Green had a strong performance in the win over Jazz, highlighted by a spectacular fourth-quarter dunk over Al Jefferson. Ainge was asked if he expects the effort on Wednesday to lead to better production from Green.

"A lot of that is confidence," Ainge said. "When you see his teammates getting more confident in him -- and you've got to earn that confidence -- I believe he will be consistent and give us that effort."

The Celtics have won three straight games and stand 5-3 on the young season, but there is a feeling that this team is still well short of their potential. Ainge was asked if he agrees with that assessment.

"I don't think we're there yet," Ainge said. "I don't think we're even close yet. I think the players know that and feel this team has a chance to really improve from where we are. We're scrapping out wins and but we are not playing our best basketball yet. ... We will get there."

To hear the interview click on The Big Show audio on demand page [1]. For more Celtics news visit weei.com/celtics [2].