Miami, FL – The Boston Celtics faced a setback in their Game 4 matchup against the Miami Heat as center Kristaps Porzingis exited the game before halftime with a right calf injury. Porzingis, who came to the Celtics from the Washington Wizards, is doubtful to return to the game after suffering the injury.
Initial reports suggest that Porzingis did not sustain an Achilles tendon injury, with further imaging scheduled for Tuesday. The 7-foot-3 center got hurt after catching a pass from Jaylen Brown and grimacing in pain while making a move during the second quarter.
The Celtics released a statement indicating that Porzingis was dealing with right calf tightness and was unlikely to make a return to the court. Al Horford took Porzingis’ place in the lineup for the second half of the game.
Porzingis has been a valuable addition to the Celtics, averaging 20 points and seven rebounds per game, enhancing Boston’s offensive capabilities. The Celtics currently lead the best-of-seven series against the Miami Heat 2-1.
The injury to Porzingis comes at a crucial time for the Celtics as they look to continue their playoff push. The team will have to adapt and rely on other players to step up in his absence, facing the challenge of maintaining their lead in the series.
As the game progresses, the Celtics will need to adjust their strategies and rotations to compensate for the loss of Porzingis. The outcome of the series may hinge on how well the team can adapt to this unexpected obstacle and continue to perform at a high level in his absence.