Kristaps Porzingis, a crucial player for the Boston Celtics, is listed as questionable for Game 5 of the NBA Finals on Monday, according to Jared Weiss of The Athletic.
Porzingis has been sidelined since Game 2 due to a torn medial retinaculum and a dislocated posterior tibialis tendon in his left leg. This injury is separate from the calf strain that previously kept him out for over a month earlier in the postseason.
In his return during Game 1 of the Finals, Porzingis made a significant impact, scoring 20 points, grabbing six rebounds, and blocking three shots in just 21 minutes. He continued his strong performance in Game 2, contributing 12 points, four rebounds, and two blocks in 23 minutes.
Despite being cleared for Game 4, Porzingis did not play as the Celtics, leading the series 3-0, faced a blowout loss. Coach Joe Mazzulla decided to rest his starting center during the game.
As the series returns to Boston, Porzingis’ availability remains uncertain. Updates are expected during the morning shootaround and Mazzulla’s pregame press conference.
ESPN’s Tim Bontemps reported that Mazzulla commented on Porzingis’ efforts to return, stating, “He’s trying and doing everything he can to put himself in a position to be out there. I know that for sure.”
