Celtics Dominate Cavaliers in Game 1 of Eastern Conference Semifinals without Porzingis: Boston Journalist Provides Update on Injury
The Boston Celtics emerged victorious in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Cleveland Cavaliers with a dominant 120-95 win, despite being without star big man Kristaps Porzingis. Porzingis was sidelined with a right soleus strain that occurred during Game 4 against the Miami Heat, leaving fans eager to know when he might return to action.
NBC Sports Boston’s Chris Forsberg provided an update on Porzingis after the Game 1 win, stating that he saw Porzingis walking out of the building perfectly fine. This sparked speculation on a possible sooner-than-expected return for the Latvian center.
Initial reports had suggested that Porzingis would be out for one to two weeks, but coach Joe Mazzulla revealed that the injury may not be as severe as originally thought. Forsberg’s observation after the game, where he noticed Porzingis walking without any signs of discomfort, aligned with this update.
Despite Porzingis’ apparent readiness, there is no rush to bring him back, especially if the Celtics can continue their winning streak without him. With a 23-4 record on the season without Porzingis, the team may opt to rest him until his return is truly necessary.
The Celtics will face the Cavaliers again in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Thursday night. NBC Sports Boston’s coverage will begin at 6 p.m. with Celtics Pregame Live before the action tips off at 7 p.m. ET at TD Garden.
