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Kristaps Porzingis Injury Update: Uncertainty Surrounds Celtics Star's Game 3 Availability
The Boston Celtics are facing a potential setback as their big man, Kristaps Porzingis, may need to return to the sidelines following a significant injury scare in the NBA Finals. Porzingis suffered a "torn medial retinaculum, allowing dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon" in his left leg, putting his availability for Game 3 on Wednesday night in doubt.
This latest injury issue is separate from the calf strain that kept Porzingis out of action for over a month during the Eastern Conference playoffs. Despite this, Porzingis remains optimistic about his recovery and potential return.
Understanding the Injury
A 2006 study indicated that there have only been 32 documented cases of a dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon (the worst-case outcome) in the English language. The medial retinaculum is connective tissue that serves as the roof of the tarsal tunnel (think carpal tunnel but in the foot). It anchors multiple structures in place, including the tendon of the posterior tibialis. If the retinaculum is torn, the tendon can shift out of place (dislocate), causing pain and instability of the ankle and foot.
To visually grasp the injury, Evan Jeffries created a helpful graphic to show where the medial retinaculum and posterior tibialis tendon are located. While speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Porzingis had a wrap and/or brace on his left ankle and appeared to be moving freely. Walking around, however, is much different from playing in a high-stakes NBA Finals game.
Porzingis' Determination
If it were up to Porzingis, he would play in Game 3. However, the team is prioritizing his long-term health and not allowing him to take any unnecessary risks. "We've taken the decision to play out of his hands, because of the importance of him," a team representative stated. "He's going to do everything he can to play, and then we're going to leave it up to our medical team."
Porzingis' status up in the air raises questions about how his absence would impact the Celtics. The team went 9-1 earlier in the playoffs without him, but his return in Games 1 and 2 of this series was a significant boost. In just 43 minutes over those two games, Porzingis had 32 points, 10 rebounds, and five blocks on 12-of-20 shooting. The Celtics were plus-25 with him on the floor.
Impact on the Team
Porzingis offers a unique skill set. Offensively, he can space the floor or hunt switches if guarded by a smaller player. Defensively, he's provided some massive rejections and altered numerous other looks. He's their only true rim protector, and his absence would put more pressure on Al Horford and force the Celtics into some interesting lineup decisions.
Without Porzingis, the Celtics could give backup big minutes to non-shooting threats like Luke Kornet or Xavier Tillman. However, this would allow the Dallas Mavericks' big men to linger around the basket. Alternatively, the Celtics might try small-ball lineups with Jayson Tatum or Oshae Brissett at the five, though neither option is optimal.
Despite these concerns, the Celtics still hold the upper hand in the series with a 2-0 lead. This latest development, however, may have added a new layer of intrigue to what has already been an electrifying NBA Finals.
Looking Ahead
The Celtics must reconsider their strategy and player rotations moving forward. The unforeseen complication of Porzingis' injury is a notable challenge. Whether Porzingis can defy the odds and step onto the court for Game 3 remains to be seen, but the Celtics value his contributions immensely. They will ensure any decision regarding his play is thoroughly vetted by the medical team.
As Game 3 approaches, Porzingis expressed his determination, saying, "I'm going to do everything I can to be out there tomorrow." The thorough decision-making process by the Celtics' medical team is crucial to mitigating any long-term risks while considering how vital Porzingis has been for the Celtics during the NBA Finals.
This unforeseen complication adds another layer of intrigue to what has already been an electrifying series. Celtics fans and the basketball world alike are eagerly waiting to see if Porzingis can make his return and help Boston edge closer to an NBA Championship.