LOS ANGELES — Boston center Kendrick Perkins’ sprained right knee will keep him out of Game 7 of the NBA finals.

Celtics coach Doc Rivers confirmed Wednesday that his starting center won’t play in the season finale against the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night, dealing a blow to Boston’s hopes of winning its 18th championship.

Perkins was hurt midway through the first quarter of Boston’s 89-67 loss in Game 6 on Tuesday night when he landed awkwardly after battling under the hoop with Lakers center Andrew Bynum. Perkins sprained multiple ligaments in his knee, according to Rivers.

Perkins says he’s devastated to miss the game, but expects his teammates to fill in admirably.

Rasheed Wallace or Glen Davis likely will start in Perkins’ place.