WALTHAM — The last time a rookie was in the Celtics starting lineup for the season-opening game, Paul Pierce had 19 points and nine rebounds in a 103-92 loss to the Toronto Raptors Feb. 5, 1999.

It has taken nearly 13 years for another rookie to emerge with a chance to be an opening day starter, and when the Celtics visit Miami Tuesday, Jared Sullinger, 20, could make his professional debut among the starters.