Kristaps Porzingis Injury Update: Uncertainty Surrounds Celtics Star's Game 3 Availability
Boston Celtics big man Kristaps Porzingis might be returning to the sidelines following a significant injury scare during the NBA Finals. Porzingis has suffered a "torn medial retinaculum," which has led to the dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon in his left leg.
This diagnosis means Porzingis is considered "day-to-day," casting doubt on his availability for Game 3 scheduled for Wednesday night. Importantly, this new injury is unrelated to the calf strain that kept him out for over a month during the Eastern Conference playoffs. Despite the setback, Porzingis remains optimistic about his chances of returning soon.
Rare but Serious Injury
A 2006 study indicated there have only been 32 documented cases of a dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon in the English language. The medial retinaculum, connective tissue that serves as the roof of the tarsal tunnel (similar to the carpal tunnel in the wrist), anchors multiple structures in place, including the tendon of the posterior tibialis. If the retinaculum is torn, the tendon can shift out of place, causing pain and instability in the ankle and foot.
Evan Jeffries created a helpful graphic to illustrate where the medial retinaculum and posterior tibialis tendon are located, providing valuable context for understanding Porzingis' injury. During a recent media session, Porzingis was seen wearing a wrap or brace on his left ankle, and he appeared to be moving freely. However, walking around is markedly different from playing in a high-stakes NBA Finals game. If it were solely up to Porzingis, he would play, but the team's medical staff will not let him take any unnecessary risks.
Impact on the Celtics
With Porzingis' status uncertain, it is worth considering how his absence would impact the Celtics. The team went 9-1 without him earlier in the playoffs, showcasing their depth and resilience. However, Porzingis' return in Games 1 and 2 of the Finals was a massive boost. During those games, he amassed 32 points, 10 rebounds, and five blocks on 12-of-20 shooting in just 43 minutes. His presence on the court was significant, as the Celtics were plus-25 with him playing.
Porzingis' ability to space the floor and exploit mismatches against smaller defenders has been crucial for the Celtics. Defensively, he has provided some massive rejections and altered numerous shots, acting as their primary rim protector. His absence will place additional pressure on Al Horford and force the Celtics into making some challenging lineup decisions.
Without Porzingis, the team may need to allocate more minutes to backup big men who are not shooting threats, such as Luke Kornet or Xavier Tillman. This strategy would allow the Mavericks' big men to congregate around the basket. Alternatively, the Celtics could opt to play small-ball, with Jayson Tatum or Oshae Brissett at the center position. Neither option is optimal, but the Celtics' versatility and depth give them a fighting chance.
Celtics' Strategy Moving Forward
Despite Porzingis' uncertain status, the Celtics hold a 2-0 lead in the series, providing them with a buffer to reassess their strategy and player rotations. This latest complication adds another layer of intrigue to what has already been an electrifying NBA Finals. The Celtics must carefully consider their next moves, ensuring that any decision regarding Porzingis' participation is thoroughly vetted by the medical team.
Porzingis is determined to take the court, stating, "I'm going to do everything I can to be out there tomorrow." Meanwhile, the team's coaching staff emphasized the importance of making a balanced decision, given Porzingis' significant contribution to the team and his long-term health. They have taken the decision out of his hands, relying on the expertise of their medical team.
Porzingis' ability to defy the odds and step onto the court for Game 3 remains to be seen. The Celtics value his contributions immensely and will ensure that any decision to play him is made with caution and consideration. As the team navigates this unexpected challenge, fans can expect an even more compelling series moving forward.