I’d like to think Delonte West’s return will make everything better. That he will free Nate Robinson to start scoring. That he’ll allow the Celtics bench to extend leads rather than cough them up. That he’ll be a blessing from the basketball gods.

He may not accomplish all that, but he should at least return in good shape. (Boston Globe)

“It’s real tough, but at the same time, you have to get as much as you can when we are here,’’ he said. “I have to make sure I pay very close attention to what we’re doing, what we’re trying to accomplish. Because most of these teams we are going to be playing four times a year, and it’s just important to stay engaged.

“That’s all I can do right now.’’

“To pass the time? I’m in here, two, three times a day,’’ said West. “That’s where I should be. It’s a sanctuary in here, man. It takes your mind away from things.’’

And by here, West means the gym. The gym is his sanctuary. What a line.

No matter how much time West spends in his sanctuary during his 10-game suspension, it could still take him a while to return to game shape. He understands that and doesn’t mind if Doc Rivers decides to ease West back into things.

“I’m counting down the days, but it’s a long season,’’ he said. “Just because I’m able to play or eligible to participate doesn’t mean I’m going to play. If I’m not in those rotations right away, that’s still fine. I’m just here to help this team win any way possible.’’

Will West be a panacea for what has been an underwhelming Celtics bench? In my dreams, yes. In reality, maybe. At the very least, his presence should make the Celtics a better team.