In spite of escaping a major injury, Kristaps Porzingis seems optimistic.
The best player for the Celtics, Kristaps Porzingis, allegedly escaped a devastating Achilles injury on Monday despite having to exit Game 4 against the Heat due to a right calf strain.
Another positive development came from a late-night tweet from Porzingis, which appeared to suggest that he would play again during the playoffs.
The findings of Porzingis’ MRI on Tuesday will reveal the entire extent of his ailment to the Celtics. But the positive tweet from the Latvian could be encouraging for Boston’s pursuit of Banner 18.
After missing the playoffs with the Knicks and then the Wizards, Porzingis had little postseason experience going into these playoffs. Between the 2019–20 and 2020–21 seasons, he played just ten times for the Mavericks.
In his first game against the Heat, the 7-footer has already had an impact on both sides of the court, hitting 40% from three and preventing 1.5 shots per contest.
It is anticipated that the Celtics would start veteran big man Al Horford in Porzingis’ place. Taking everything into account, Horford can easily fill in for Porzingis until he returns.
If the Celtics defeat the Heat, they can even afford to bench the Latvian for a second-round series against the Magic or Cavaliers to be cautious until he’s nearly fully recovered.
But, Porzingis’ return is essential for the Celtics to go to the Eastern Conference Finals and beyond. Jayston Tatum has called him the “most important” player on the team for a reason.
Porzingis’s long-range shooting and ability to manipulate shots around the rim disrupt the Celtics’ offensive and defensive dynamics.
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