Kristaps Porzingis Plans to Return for NBA Finals Opener Against Dallas Mavericks…
Boston Celtics star Kristaps Porzingis, who has been sidelined since April 29 due to a calf injury, intends to be ready for Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks on June 6.
“That is the plan right now,” Porzingis said on June 4, marking his first public comments since May 4. “With a few more days, I believe I can improve. Each day gives me more time to recover.”
The 7-foot-2 power forward/center suffered a right calf strain in Game 4 of Boston’s first-round playoff series against the Miami Heat. During the regular season, his first with the Celtics, Porzingis averaged 20.1 points and 7.2 rebounds, shooting a career-high 51.6% from the field. He joined the Celtics from the Washington Wizards in a three-team trade involving the Memphis Grizzlies on June 23, 2023.
Porzingis, 28, previously played parts of three seasons with the Mavericks (2019-2022), adding an intriguing element to the Finals matchup. He has watched Boston achieve a 9-1 record without him, defeating Miami, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Indiana Pacers to reach the Finals.
“I think it’s gonna be great,” Porzingis said. “I have great relationships in Dallas and I’m happy for their success. It will be fun to play against my old team.”
However, Porzingis’ participation depends on his health. Asked if he is fully recovered, he responded, “Good question. I don’t know. We’ll see. I’ve worked hard to get back into playing shape.”
He noted that it’s challenging to replicate game intensity in practice but trusts the medical staff’s judgment.
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla expressed confidence in Porzingis’ ability to return effectively. “He’s been playing basketball for like 30 years,” Mazzulla said. “You don’t forget how to play after a month off. He’s done great things for us this season, and I expect him to continue.”
Meanwhile, former Celtics star Kyrie Irving anticipates a hostile reception in Boston, five years after leaving the team. “You call it animosity. We call it hate,” Irving said. “It’s going to be hell in Boston.”
Reflecting on his last playoff appearance in Boston with Brooklyn, Irving acknowledged his past mistakes and expressed readiness for the challenge. “I’ve grown since then… I’m looking forward to it.”
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