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[Saba Sports News] Kristaps Porzingis pushed through an injury to help the Boston Celtics close out the NBA Finals on Monday night, ignoring advice from medical professionals.
Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla discussed the championship win on the “Pardon My Take” podcast on Tuesday, revealing that Porzingis played in Game 5 against the Dallas Mavericks despite doctors advising him to sit out due to a leg injury.
“We didn’t know how long the series would last, so we tried to save him from himself because he wanted to play,” Mazzulla said. “When it came to Game 5 at home, he insisted, ‘I’m playing.’ He overrode the medical team and played. Credit to him.”
Porzingis missed most of the playoffs with a calf injury but returned for the Finals. After a strong performance in Game 1, he suffered another rare leg injury in Game 2. It’s clear he played through pain in Game 5, as suggested by one of his teammates.
The Celtics managed to reach the Finals without Porzingis, but they are undeniably stronger with him on the court. If he stays healthy next year, Boston’s chances of defending their title will be significantly higher.