Boston’s big man might be back sooner than expected.
Kristaps Porzingis suffered a right soleus strain in Game 4 of the Boston Celtics five-game playoff series against the Miami Heat. It was a non-contact injury. Given Porzingis’ importance to the Celtics roster and their push to win a championship, there was undoubtedly concern regarding his ability to get back on the floor ahead of the NBA Finals.
However, in a recent interview with Zolak & Bertrand, Joe Mazzulla confirmed that Porzingis’ injury wasn’t as bad as first thought.
“Yeah, it’s definitely better than we thought,” Mazzulla said. “And the one thing about KP is I don’t know what his timetable is, but I know his mentality. He really pushes himself to get back as quickly as he can. And he does a great job working to take care of himself. He’s walking a little bit better. Every day, he’s in there, doing whatever it takes to try and get back as fast as he can. So, I appreciate that.”
“It’s definitely better than we thought”
Joe Mazzulla gives @ZoandBertrand an update on Kristaps Porzingis, and how Al Horford is ready to do what’s necessary to fill his shoes pic.twitter.com/EcxumMOBNN
— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) May 7, 2024
Without Porzingis, the Celtics are missing their best rim protector and floor spacer. However, Mazzulla believes the Celtics have prepared for this moment throughout the regular season. They would consistently sit Al Horford and Porzingis on the opposite end of a back-to-back.
Horford was moved to a bench role for the first time in his career this season. As such, Mazzulla believes Boston’s resting policy, and Horford’s lower mileage for the season allows him to step into a starting role with confidence.
“I think that’s what we’ve done throughout the year by Al not playing in back-to-backs and limiting his minutes throughout the season. I think Al does a tremendous job of taking care of himself. And he’s ready for situations like this. He’s ready for playoffs. I think one of the best things about someone like Al is that he loves being relied on.”
Despite Horford being ready to step into a bigger role, the Celtics need Porzingis back in the rotation. He changes the dynamic of the team. He allows Mazzulla’s five-out offense to bend opposing defenses to their will. And he makes the Celtics one of the toughest teams to score on within four feet of the basket.
Despite the encouraging update regarding Porzingis’ recovery, the Celtics will still be without him for their opening game(s) against the Cavaliers. Their second-round series will tip-off on Tuesday, May 7, at 7 PM Eastern, with the first two games taking place at the TD Garden courtesy of Boston securing the first seed in the East.