NBA Finals Game 1: Boston Celtics ‘not sure’ if Kristaps Porzingis will be ready

Boston Celtics’ standout Kristaps Porzingis remains a question mark for the impending NBA Finals opener, with Coach Joe Mazzulla expressing uncertainty about the 7-foot-2 forward’s readiness for the crucial clash.

Despite intensifying his workouts, Porzingis’ status for Game 1 on June 6 in Boston against either the Dallas Mavericks or Minnesota Timberwolves remains uncertain. The towering forward has been sidelined since suffering a soleus muscle strain in Game 4 of the first-round series against the Miami Heat on April 29.

In his weekly radio interview on 98.5 The Sports Hub, Coach Mazzulla admitted, “I’m not sure. I don’t know yet,” regarding Porzingis’ availability. However, he acknowledged Porzingis’ diligent efforts to ramp up his on-court activities. “He’s been working hard,” Mazzulla emphasized. “There have been instances where he’s increased his intensity level in individual sessions, although he hasn’t fully participated in team activities during shootarounds. Nonetheless, he’s shown steady improvement.”

The Celtics have maintained an impressive seven-game winning streak and boast a stellar 9-1 record overall since Porzingis’ injury setback.

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Despite the uncertainty surrounding Porzingis’ return, the Celtics can rely on veteran Al Horford, whose impactful performances in the Eastern Conference finals played a pivotal role in the team’s success. Horford remains poised to step up and fulfill any role required by the team in Porzingis’ absence.

Porzingis, who averaged 20.1 points and 7.2 rebounds per game in 57 regular-season starts, exuded optimism in a recent social media post, expressing his anticipation for the finals with a simple message: “see you in the finals.”

As the Celtics prepare for the pinnacle of basketball competition, the looming question of Porzingis’ availability adds intrigue to their quest for NBA glory. With the championship on the line, Boston remains focused on navigating the challenges ahead, regardless of Porzingis’ status, as they strive to capture basketball’s ultimate prize.