The Boston Celtics faced a significant setback in Game 4 of their first-round series against the Miami Heat when center Kristaps Porzingis sustained a lower-body injury. Initially, there were concerns that the injury might be a season-ending Achilles tendon injury, but it was later diagnosed as a less severe right soleus strain.
Following the game, Celtics backup big man Luke Kornett revealed that the atmosphere in the locker room was subdued and focused after Porzingis’ injury, with veteran Al Horford offering guidance to him and Xavier Tillman, urging them to prepare well and stay ready to contribute.
Via Bobby Manning of Celtics on CLNS:
Luke Kornet told me the #Celtics’ locker room was pretty quiet and focused after Porzingis’ injury on closing the game out. Al Horford talked to him and Xavier Tillman, telling them to get a good warmup in and be ready to go
Porzingis is unlikely to feature in the remainder of the first-round series and could miss additional games if the Celtics progress further. Despite his absence, the Celtics possess ample firepower to mitigate the impact. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are in good health, and Derrick White recently showcased his scoring prowess.
With Porzingis sidelined, players like Kornet, Horford, and Tillman are expected to assume larger roles. Porzingis’ absence will be felt, especially given his contributions of 12.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game in the first four games against Miami.
While Porzingis’ injury is significant for the Celtics, it is noteworthy that the Heat are also grappling with absences, notably Jimmy Butler and Terry Rozier. Without their primary rim protector, the Celtics may face challenges containing Heat star Bam Adebayo, who capitalized on the interior defense gaps in Game 4.
Interestingly, Porzingis’ injury mirrors the one that has sidelined Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP, from playoff action. Antetokounmpo last played on April 9 against the Celtics in Milwaukee.
Looking ahead, if the Celtics progress to the second round, they would face the winner of the series between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Orlando Magic.
