In a heartbreaking turn of events, Kristaps Porzingis, the star player for the Celtics, suffered a non-contact leg injury during their playoff game against the Heat on Monday night. Porzingis, who was guarding Adebayo at the 3-point line, suddenly came up limping, prompting doubts about his ability to return to the game due to right calf tightness.

During the second quarter, Porzingis, visibly agitated, headed to the locker room, covering his face with his jersey. The loss of the Celtics' star player did not deter them, as Derrick White stepped up and scored an impressive game-high of 38 points, leading the team to a dominant 102-88 victory and giving them a 3-1 series lead.

Despite the win, concerns about Porzingis' condition loomed large. In a post on social media platform X, Porzingis expressed his gratitude for the support he had received and reassured fans that he would be alright. However, TNT play-by-play broadcaster Brian Anderson and color commentator Stan Van Gundy observed that Porzingis appeared to be deeply worried about his injury.

Prior to his exit from the game, Porzingis had contributed significantly to the Celtics' performance, accounting for seven of their 53 first-half points and grabbing three rebounds. His absence in the upcoming games may pose a challenge for the team as they aim to build on their 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series against the Heat.

This injury comes at a crucial time for the Celtics, who entered the game as the overwhelming favorites to win the Eastern Conference and were the betting favorites to win the NBA championship overall. Porzingis' absence may require other players to step up and fill the void left by his absence.

Throughout the regular season, Porzingis showcased his skills, averaging an impressive 20.1 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. The Celtics will anxiously await updates on his condition as they prepare for the next game, hoping for his swift recovery and return to the court.