The status of Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis is in doubt for the remainder of the 2024 NBA Finals.
Celts announced on tuesday that Porzingis will be “day to day” with a left leg injury suffered in Game 2. The team made it clear that the injury is unrelated to his right calf injury that kept him sidelined for most of the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
Porzingis missed 10 of Boston’s 16 postseason games due to a right soleus (calf) strain suffered in Game 4 of the first round against the Heat. After missing the entire second round and the Eastern Conference Finals, Porzingis seemed to have his full strength back in Game 1 of the NBA Finals.
The 28-year-old made an immediate impact off the bench, posting 20 points and three blocks to give the Celtics a 1-0 series lead. Despite scoring 12 points and two blocks in the Game 2 victory, Porzingis looked limp late in the game.
It appears that Porzingis suffered another injury in addition to re-tweaking his right calf. Jugo Mobile has you covered with the latest updates below.
What is Kristaps Porzingis’ injury?
The Celtics announced Tuesday that Porzingis “suffered a medial retinaculum tear that allowed for a dislocation of the posterior tibial tendon in his left leg” during the third quarter of Game 2.
The team noted that the injury is not related to Porzingis’ previous injury to his right calf.
“After consulting with numerous specialists regarding this rare injury, his availability for upcoming matches will be determined day by day.”
While the “day-to-day” schedule seems positive, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla gave a more honest assessment to the media. Mazzula called it a “serious injury” and said the Celtics’ medical team will make the decision on Porzingis’ availability.
“He’s doing everything he can to be able to play,” Mazzulla said. according to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon.
How long will Kristaps Porzingis be out?
After missing Game 3, Mazzulla said Porzingis “got better.” [Wednesday] to [Thursday] and is fighting hard to play the fourth game,” during his media availability on Thursday.
Porzingis spoke to the media moments after Boston revealed his injury status on Tuesday.
“Obviously, I’m going to do everything I can to be out there. [for Game 3]. I’m an optimist and I’ll do my best to be out there. [for Game 3]”,” he said confidently. “…Nothing will stop me unless they tell me not to or don’t let me play.”
Although he was not cleared to play in Game 3, Porzingis is still fighting to get back on the court to help his team finish the job.
Porzingis said he didn’t know “the details” when asked if he was at risk of aggravating the injury by playing. “That’s something I’ll leave to the medical staff,” he told the media.
Porzingis has been a major X-factor for the Celtics on both ends of the floor all season long. He is averaging 16.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.5 blocks in just 21.9 minutes through the first two games of the NBA Finals. His +25 over/under is third best in the championship round.
Check back for updates on his status for Friday’s Game 4 as they become available.
What is a torn medial retinaculum?
The medial retinaculum is also known as the “medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL).” according to RileyWilliamsMD.com.
It is part of the network of soft tissue restraints that helps stabilize the knee. The MPFL keeps the kneecap (patella) centered, so that it glides correctly during leg movement. The MPFL is located on the inside of the knee and connects the kneecap to the femur (thigh bone). An injury, such as a sprain or tear, to this ligament often occurs due to a traumatic, forced dislocation of the kneecap.
A person who suffers this injury will feel sharp pain and immediate swelling. The kneecap may lock into place. Occasionally, a dislocated kneecap may require a doctor’s help to move the bone back into place. Most kneecap dislocations return to their place naturally. As part of the recovery process, a brace, rest, and physical therapy can heal an MPFL tear.
Celtics vs. Mavericks 2024 NBA Finals Schedule
Games 1, 2, 5 and 7 are scheduled to be played at TD Garden in Boston. The series will move to the American Airlines Center in Dallas for Games 3, 4 and 6.
(1) Celtics vs. (5) Mavericks: Boston leads the series 3-0
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV/live broadcast |
| June 6th | Celts 107Mavericks 89 | — | — |
| June 9 | Celts 105Mavericks 98 | — | — |
| June 12 | Celts 106Mavericks 99 | — | — |
| June 14th | Game 4 | 8:30 pm | ABC, Sling |
| June 17 | 5* game | 8:30 pm | ABC, Sling |
| June 20th | Game 6* | 8:30 pm | ABC, Sling |
| June 23 | Game 7* | 8 p.m. | ABC, Sling |
*If necessary
