The ’Glove’ breaks thumb; expected back for season opener

Payton, who was acquired from the Los Angeles Lakers in an offseason trade, sustained the injury in the fourth quarter of Monday’s 95-88 loss to Cleveland.

According to the club, Payton will be re-evaluated on a day-to-day basis and is expected to play in the Celtics’ season opener against Philadelphia on November 3.

Last season Payton averaged 14.6 points, 5.5 assists and 34.5 minutes per contest in — his lowest totals in 11 seasons. The nine-time All-Star point guard has posted career averages of 18 points, 7.2 assists and 36.8 minutes per game.

Payton’s first season with the Celtics has already been bumpy. After being traded, he stated that he did not want to play in Boston or relocate his family from the West Coast and skipped an August 13 deadline for his physical.

However, the 36-year old veteran reported to Celtics training camp on time.