Sunday was quite a way for Iman Shumpert to celebrate the one-year anniversary of tearing his ACL.
The Georgia Tech product has been looking a lot like his rookie self, a menacing defender and rebounder, armed with a dangerous 3-point shot. He’s also putting the ball on the floor and attacking the basket.
Shumpert was impressive in the second half Sunday against the Celtics, finishing with 12 points, 12 rebounds, two blocks and two steals. On April 28, 2012, Shumpert collapsed on the Miami court in Game 1 after pushing off the wrong way on a drive.
One year later, the one thing he still doesn’t do much is dunk. That may not happen until next season. Shumpert, who returned Jan. 17, acknowledged his athleticism isn’t the same. Not yet. Shumpert often will move in for the kill and lay the ball in like it was the 1950s.
“I feel fine,’’ Shumpert said. “I know I’m going to be able to jump higher. That’s going to come. They told me I’m not going to be able to spring like I usually do. But I know that’s coming back anyway. Something I’m not worried about right now. It’s about winning.’’
