They may be getting center Kristaps Porzingis back for this key tussle. Porzingis, who exited Game 1 with a non-COVID-19 illness, is currently listed as probable for Friday’s meeting. Head coach Joe Mazzulla sounded optimistic about Porzingis’ return. Porzingis has been dealing with this issue since returning a month ago.
Porzingis’ presence was invaluable for the Celtics throughout the regular season. His playoff performance is raising some red flags. He’s been awful knocking down shots, hitting 32 percent from the field. What’s more, he’s shot just 2-of-17 from deep over six playoff games. Even with all of these caveats, Mazzulla is excited at the possibility of what Porzingis can do to open up the game.
Since returning, he’s been taking the challenges to task directly. He’s battling through it and doing his best to figure things out. I think it was just kind of too much for him in that game,” Mazzulla said of Porzingis’ condition.
In Game 1 against the Knicks, Porzingis’ premature exit created an early turning point for the Celtics’ fortune. The void he left in their offense, and how to adjust going forward in the series without him was a big topic of debate. The Celtics want to use their home-court advantage as best they can in Game 2. Having a talent like Porzingis in the lineup easily tips the scales in their quest to find one.
As the Celtics get ready for this key matchup, they’re still being cautious with Porzingis. His health and ability to contribute on a high level will be crucial as they look to make a deeper run in the playoffs.
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