Introduction
Kristaps Porzingis’ much-anticipated return to Dallas was marred by injury as the Boston Celtics ruled out their starting center for Game 3 of the NBA Finals. Porzingis suffered a torn medial retinaculum and a dislocated posterior tibialis tendon in his left leg during Game 2.
Injury Details
Porzingis’ latest setback occurred in the third quarter of Game 2 and is not related to the right calf injury he sustained earlier in the playoffs against Miami. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla commented on the situation before the game.
“It’s just day-to-day,” Mazzulla said. “The medical team and the staff just decided that it wasn’t what’s best for him to go tonight. It’ll just be a day-to-day thing and (we’ll) see how he is tomorrow and the next day.”
Impact on the Game
- Rim Protection and Spacing: Porzingis’ absence impacts Boston’s rim protection and floor spacing.
- Team Depth: Mazzulla emphasized the importance of team depth, highlighting that other players would need to step up.
Porzingis’ Performance
Game Contributions
- Game 1: Porzingis scored 20 points on 8-for-13 shooting.
- Game 2: Contributed 12 points, 10 rebounds, and five blocks.
Despite being hobbled late in Game 2, Porzingis played 23 minutes. He injured his leg while attempting to grab a rebound and colliding with Dallas rookie Dereck Lively II.
“I just kept playing for a while after that,” Porzingis said. “Towards the end, my movement was affected a bit.”
Season Statistics
- Regular Season: Averaged 20.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks in 57 games.
- Without Porzingis: Boston holds a 30-5 record without him, including 9-1 in the postseason.
Team Reactions
Jayson Tatum’s View
Celtics forward Jayson Tatum highlighted Porzingis’ unique skill set and his impact on both ends of the floor.
“A 7-4 unicorn, right?” Tatum said. “He’s as talented as they come, presents so many matchup problems on the offensive end. Then on the defensive end, he’s somebody that can affect shots, protect the rim. We’ve had success and found ways to win without him.”
Porzingis’ Absence in Dallas
Porzingis has not played a game in the American Airlines Center since being traded from Dallas to the Washington Wizards in 2022. Reflecting on his injury woes, he humorously remarked:
“Some black magic, no?”
Conclusion
The Celtics will need to rely on their depth and resilience as they face the challenge of playing without Porzingis in Game 3. While Boston has shown it can win without him, his presence on the court undeniably strengthens their championship aspirations.(Jiliasia)
