The Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers are gearing up to face off in the Eastern Conference Finals.
While the Celtics have had time to rest and get healthy ahead of this series, the Pacers haven’t had much time to process what is going on.
The Pacers just beat the New York Knicks in seven games on Sunday, while the Celtics were done with their series on May 15th.
However, just because they have had time to rest doesn’t mean that everyone has had enough opportunity to get healthy again.
According to the Celtics’ official Twitter page, Kristaps Porzingis will not play in Game 1 of this series, a devastating blow to the team.
#NEBHInjuryReport update:
Kristaps Porzingis (right soleus strain) – OUT
Xavier Tillman (personal reasons) – QUESTIONABLE https://t.co/z34dJeGlKh— Boston Celtics (@celtics) May 20, 2024
Although Porzingis has been dealing with injuries throughout the season, he is a valuable contributor to this roster when he is on the floor.
When he is unable to play, the Celtics have to rely more heavily on Al Horford, who otherwise tends to come off the bench.
Horford might be an established veteran, but he lacks the scoring upside of Porzingis.
It will be interesting to see how this series plays out with this in mind, especially considering the fact that the Celtics are heavy favorites to win the NBA Finals.
Both teams have stars that can take over a game, but, as has been evidenced throughout the playoffs, having depth off the bench is even more important.
Will Porzingis’ injury result in the Celtics losing Game 1 of this series, potentially impacting their chances to make it to the Finals?
The post Celtics Make Decision On Kristaps Porzingis’ Status For Game 1 appeared first on The Cold Wire.