If there is one thing that the Celtics have proved this season, it is that they have enough roster depth to compete for the NBA championship. Despite losing Kristaps Porzingis to a calf injury in Game 4 of the first round, they have gone 9-1 without him, with his replacement Al Horford stepping up in his absence.
However, for the Finals, they will need Porzingis back to finally end their 15-year title drought. The question now is whether he will be ready for Game 1 on June 6.
While awaiting their next opponents between the Mavericks and Timberwolves, Porzingis has been using this time to finish his recovery. Insider Shams Charania reports that there is hope for the center to return for the start of the final series.
“There’s definitely hope. There’s definitely optimism,” he said on the Run It Back show. “There are still some hurdles, I’m told, that he has to clear before he can play in Game 1 of the Finals, but there’s of course hope that this next week-plus will give him the time that needs to ramp up and get ready for that Game 1 next Thursday.”
Porzingis’ teammates are also eager for his return, with Payton Pritchard sharing an encouraging update on his progress, stating, “He looks really good. I think he’ll be ready shortly.”
In a recent statement, Porzingis expressed gratitude for the support and assured his fans that he will be back soon, saying, “Thank you to everyone who supports and sympathizes throughout the season. I’ll be back in line soon. See you in the finals,” in Latvian.
Different insiders shared their views on when they believed the Celtics big man will be 100% fit for the NBA Finals
Boston reporter Chris Forsberg expressed his desire for Porzingis to return in top form for the Finals, hoping for more than just 20 minutes of play. He emphasized the importance of not rushing Porzingis back and allowing him ample time to recover.
As the Mavericks lead the series 3-1 heading into Game 5 against the Timberwolves, Porzingis’ recovery is seen as extra motivation for the Celtics. Forsberg highlighted the potential motivation stemming from Porzingis facing his former team and mentioned the need for his presence against the strong big men of the Mavericks.
