It’s no secret Kristaps Porzingis has consistently battled injuries over the course of his career in the NBA. Just recently, though, the Boston Celtics big man posted an update that may spark hope in the team’s fans.
Ever since he entered the league in 2015, Porzingis made jaws drop by becoming one of the earliest centers who can handle the ball and shoot it from downtown on a consistent basis. During his first three years with the New York Knicks, the Latvian star averaged 17.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 2.0 blocks per game.
He would later play several seasons for the Dallas Mavericks and Washington Wizards before making his way to the Celtics. By then, he wasn’t considered a No. 1 option due to his extensive injury history. Nevertheless, the idea of adding Porzingis to a lineup headed by All-Star forward Jayson Tatum seemed intriguing before the current season began.
After the regular season, that idea appeared to have worked, as Boston ended up with the best record in the NBA. Even if that was the case, Porzingis always checked in and out of the lineup due to various injuries. The same can be said during their recent runs eliminating the Jimmy Butler-less Miami Heat and Cleveland Cavaliers in the second round. Fortunately, they managed to pull those series victories off without their big man healthy on the court.
Porzingis first strained his calf during Game 4 against the Miami Heat. Since then, the Celtics star has been out of the lineup. But in a post by Cameron Tabatabie on X, there’s hope that Porzingis will make his way back sooner than later.
Porzingis remains OUT for Game 5 tonight but posted an optimistic update on Instagram pic.twitter.com/jYmklXPVdJ
— Cameron Tabatabaie (@CTabatabaie) May 15, 2024
Although he missed the chance to eliminate Donovan Mitchell and the Cavs, having him healthy for the Conference Finals and a possible NBA Finals run is more important. With his ability to defend the paint and provide spacing on the other end, the Celtics will definitely need him more than ever.
It remains to be seen when Porzingis’ actual return will be. Nevertheless, Boston fans will rejoice if he ends up staying healthy for the remainder of the playoffs.
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