By The Boston Celtics are on the brink of securing their first NBA championship since 2008, as they head into Game 4 of the NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks with a commanding 3-0 lead. In a boost to their lineup, Kristaps Porzingis, who missed Game 3 due to a rare tendon injury, will be available to play in a limited role.
Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed Porzingis’ availability before the game, stating, “He’s not quite there, but we’re going to make him available. But we’re only going to use him in very specific instances if necessary.” Despite repeated questioning, Mazzulla remained tight-lipped about the exact nature of Porzingis’ potential involvement.
The 7-foot-2 Latvian center has been a valuable asset for the Celtics this postseason, averaging 13.5 points and 5.0 rebounds in his first six games. His presence was particularly felt in Game 1 against the Mavericks, where he contributed 20 points, six rebounds, and three blocked shots.
Porzingis’ recent tendon issue, which caused him to miss Game 3, is reportedly unrelated to the calf strain he sustained on April 29 during the first round against the Miami Heat. That injury had previously sidelined him for 10 games.
In Porzingis’ absence, 38-year-old veteran Al Horford has stepped up as the starting center for the Celtics. Horford, who is chasing his first NBA title, has been a reliable presence on the court, even starting when Porzingis was available in the first two games of the finals.
The Celtics acquired Porzingis in a trade with the Washington Wizards last summer and subsequently signed him to a $60 million, two-year extension, which will come into effect next season.
As the Celtics look to close out the series and claim their 18th NBA championship, the availability of Kristaps Porzingis, even in a limited capacity, provides a welcome boost to their roster. Game 4 of the NBA Finals tips off on Friday night, with the Celtics aiming to make history and complete the sweep against the Mavericks.
