Update on Boston Celtics Center Kristaps Porzingis
Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis is currently expected to miss the first two games of the Eastern Conference finals due to a soleus strain of his right calf. However, there is optimism surrounding his potential return during the series, pending no setbacks, sources confirmed on Friday.
Porzingis has been steadily progressing in his recovery, increasing his on-court activities in preparation for a comeback in the conference finals. Nevertheless, additional time is required for his full return to competitive play, as per insider reports.
The Celtics are currently awaiting the outcome of the New York Knicks-Indiana Pacers semifinal series, with the Knicks holding a 3-2 lead entering Game 6 on Friday.
Recent Performance and Impact
Having sustained the injury in Game 5 of the first-round series against the Miami Heat on April 30, Porzingis was sidelined for the entire five-game conference semifinal victory over Cleveland. As a consequence, it is anticipated that he will miss the initial two matchups of the East finals, set to take place in Boston next week.
Standing at an imposing 7-foot-3, Porzingis’ return is deemed crucial for the Celtics’ prospects of clinching a championship, given his impressive regular-season averages of 20 points and 7.2 rebounds per game.
Stand-in Performance by Al Horford
In Porzingis’ absence, veteran center Al Horford, aged 37, has taken on the role of the starter. The pivotal Game 5 against Cleveland saw Horford deliver an exceptional performance with 22 points, 15 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 blocks, contributing significantly to the series-clinching victory on Wednesday.
Porzingis’ arrival in Boston was facilitated by a three-team trade involving Washington and Memphis during the offseason, signifying a strategic move by the Celtics to bolster their roster for a potential title run.
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