Image Source: X
[Saba Sports News] Boston Celtics fans held their breath on Sunday when Kristaps Porzingis was pulled early from Game 2 of the NBA Finals.
Porzingis suffered an injury scare midway through the fourth quarter with the Celtics leading 95-83 against the Dallas Mavericks at TD Garden. He was knocked over by Mavericks forward PJ Washington during a rebound battle and hobbled up and down the floor over the next few possessions. ESPN announcer Doris Burke noted his limp during the broadcast.
Porzingis was subbed out two minutes later and did not return, seen using a resistance band to stretch his left calf on the bench.
In his postgame press conference, Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla was asked about the level of concern regarding Porzingis’ injury. Mazzulla responded, “Nah, zero. He’s good.” Porzingis scored 12 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 blocks in the Celtics’ 105-98 win.
Porzingis had returned to Boston’s lineup for the NBA Finals after missing 10 postseason games due to a calf strain suffered in April, contributing significantly in Game 1 with 20 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 blocks off the bench.