Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis missed Game 3 of the NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks. However, he is expected to return for Game 4 on Friday in Dallas, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic. The Celtics’ goal is to eliminate the Mavericks and secure their 10th series win in NBA Finals history.
What happened to Kristaps Porzingis?
The Celtics announced Tuesday that Porzingis suffered a “torn medial retinaculum in his left leg, leading to dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon.” Coach Joe Mazzulla called it a “serious injury.” Porzingis was seen on the court for the team’s shootaround Wednesday, but was ruled out less than two hours before Game 3 tip-off.
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Despite his absence, the Celtics won 106-99, improving to 10-1 in these playoffs without the 7-foot-2 Latvian. Mazzulla stressed the importance of Porzingis’ health, saying the medical team made the decision to keep him out of the game to avoid any risks.
How did you get hurt?
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Porzingis suffered the injury with 3:27 minutes remaining in the third quarter of Game 2. It is not related to his previous right calf injury that kept him out for most of the playoffs. In Game 2, Porzingis injured his right calf while battling for a rebound with PJ Washington late in the fourth quarter. He stumbled and ran back with an awkward gait. He stayed in the game for a little more time before getting checked out and stretching his right leg on the sideline.
After the game, both Porzingis and Mazzulla downplayed the bizarre fall. However, a new injury to his left leg has raised even bigger concerns for the team.
Impact on the Celtics
Porzingis’ absence changes things for Boston. His rim protection has been crucial in limiting Dallas’ lob threats, and he has recorded five blocks in the first two games. Defensively, he’s excellent both in the paint and in space. Offensively, the Mavericks have struggled to find an answer to him.
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In the first two games of the Finals, Porzingis came off the bench but was quite effective, scoring 20 points in Game 1 and 12 in Game 2. His floor spacing ability complicated the Mavericks’ defensive schemes. Although the Celtics have performed well without him, his injury could provide the Mavericks with an opportunity to close the gap.
What’s next for Porzingis and the Celtics?
As the Celtics prepare for Game 4, the potential return of Kristaps Porzingis remains uncertain. Coach Mazzulla has left the decision to the medical team, which will determine if Porzingis is fit to play. His return could significantly improve the Celtics’ chances of winning against the Mavericks.
Fans and analysts are anxiously watching for updates on Porzingis’ status. His contributions on both ends of the floor have been crucial for Boston, and his health will be a key factor in the remainder of the series.
Source: https://th-xuyenmoc.edu.vn
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