The Boston Celtics suffered a crazy overtime loss in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks. Many Celtics fans have attributed that loss largely to the early exit of big man Kristaps Porzingis.
Tingus Pingus was removed from the game in the second quarter due to an illness. He ended the night with zero points in 13 minutes played on 0-4 shooting. Without Porzingis’ dominating size, Boston was left without much presence down low, enabling a 20-point comeback from the Knicks.
So, with Boston already down 1-0 in the series, having dropped a home game and looking to avoid a nearly insurmountable 2-0 series deficit, many fans are wondering whether the Latvian big man will be available for Game 2.
Here’s what to know.
Porzingis arrives at TD Garden
Although his status is still up in the air, Porzingis appears probable to play after being seen at TD Garden just a few hours before tip-off.
Kristaps Porzingis injury news
Porzingis was seen at the Celtics’ shootaround Wednesday morning.
While he is listed as ‘day-to-day’ on ESPN’s injury report, Porzingis is expected to suit up for tonight’s Game 2. It is unclear whether he will be limited though.
Porzingis has experience with rough illnesses in the past. The 29-year-old missed eight consecutive games between Feb. 28 and March 14 this year due to a ‘upper respiratory’ illness. Given Porzingis’ presence at this morning’s shootaround, it’s unlikely this current illness is as serious.
Porzingis’ stats against the Knicks
Porzingis has been a persistent thorn in the Knicks’ side since coming to Boston. The Celtics’ big man has averaged 22.4 points per game against his former team and is hitting 50% of his three-point attempts against them as well.
How to watch Knicks vs. Celtics, Game 2
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT
Location: TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts
Channel: TNT
Streaming: Sling TV, Fubo
Stream Knicks vs. Celtics with Fubo