Boston Celtics' Kristaps Porzingis Expected to Play in Game 5 of NBA Finals
ICARO Media Group
In an update given by Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla, it has been confirmed that Kristaps Porzingis will make his appearance in Game 5 of the NBA Finals on Monday night. Mazzulla stated that Porzingis is available and the team is expecting to see him on the court.
Earlier, before Game 4, Mazzulla had stated that Porzingis was "not quite ready" to play, and would only be used in specific situations. However, as Game 5 approaches, Mazzulla expressed confidence that Porzingis has progressed further and will be fully participating in the game, without any restrictions on his minutes.
Porzingis has been battling a torn medial retinaculum and a posterior tibialis tendon dislocation in his left leg since Game 2. Despite the injury, he has been determined to play and has undergone an extensive pregame workout ahead of both Game 4 and Game 5, under the supervision of Boston's medical staff.
After suffering the injury, Porzingis was initially described as "day-to-day." He sat out Game 3 but was listed as active for Game 4, although Mazzulla had deemed him not ready for extensive game action. However, Porzingis has been indicating that he is feeling better, though he hasn't been available for a formal interview session.
The 7-foot-3 Latvian, who joined the Celtics last year, missed over five weeks of play due to a right calf strain during the first round of the playoffs against the Miami Heat. Despite the limited playing time in the NBA Finals, Porzingis has made an impact, contributing an average of 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks in his two appearances.
With a win in Game 5, the Boston Celtics have the opportunity to secure their record-setting 18th NBA championship. Porzingis' presence on the court will undoubtedly boost their chances as they seek to claim the title.
The Celtics' decision to acquire Porzingis last year, trading away Marcus Smart, has proven to be fruitful, with Porzingis showcasing his scoring and rebounding abilities throughout the regular season.
As the anticipation builds for Game 5, all eyes will be on Porzingis as he takes the floor and aims to make a significant impact on the Celtics' quest for championship glory.
Note: The information provided by the text does not specify the opponent in the NBA Finals or any specific details about the game or teams, so it has been omitted in the article.