The Indiana Pacers vs. Boston Celtics is set to tip off the 2024 Eastern Conference Finals tonight, with both teams sharing their injury reports before the game. The Celtics face a significant setback as their center, Kristaps Porzingis, is out for the series.
Amid much speculation, Porzingis has been listed as out due to a right soleus strain. He sustained this non-contact injury during the first-round series against the Miami Heat and has not played since. He was absent throughout Boston’s five-game conference semifinal series victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Per the Celtics, only Kristaps Porzingis, who's ruled out due to the soleus strain in his right calf, is on their injury report for Game 1 vs. the Pacers.
Yesterday, Joe Mazzulla said Porzingis is in a great place mentally as he attacks his rehab. Jrue Holiday praised him…
— Bobby Krivitsky (@BobbyKrivitsky) May 20, 2024
The star center is a crucial player for the Celtics, averaging 20.1 points and 7.2 rebounds per game in the regular season. His presence is considered vital for the Celtics’ championship aspirations.
In addition to Porzingis, the Celtics have listed Xavier Tillman as questionable for personal reasons. Tillman’s availability will be a game-time decision. On the Pacers’ side, Bennedict Mathurin has been ruled out due to a torn labrum. His absence will also be significant for Indiana as they prepare to battle a strong Celtics team.
Pacers vs. Celtics: Jaylen Brown shares Kristaps Porzingis’ resilience in face of injury
Kristaps Porzingis has been grappling with injuries but has remained intensely focused on his training and recovery. Guard Jaylen Brown praised Porzingis for his dedication, noting that his mental engagement is unwavering despite not reaching full physical capacity.
Kristaps Porzingis Likely to Miss Eastern Conference Finals Due to Calf Injury
“KP’s been great. Still been very active getting at every practice, making sure he’s still involved at every team huddle and just staying in the mix. Mentally, even though physically, he’s not really fully there yet. Mentally, he’s still been engaged and that’s a great sign. When his body catches up to full health, we’ll be ready to rock and roll,” Brown said.
Porzingis’ commitment is crucial for the Celtics as they aim for their 18th NBA championship banner. Brown believes Porzingis’ return will be smooth once he is fully recovered.
“I think it’ll be a seamless transition. I think as long as KP gets in shape, makes sure he gets the reps, simulate the physicality in practice and stuff like that, I think he’ll be fine.”
Porzingis has shown solid performance against the Pacers throughout his career. He averaged 19.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 21 games against this mighty team. Hence, losing him in the WCF is a blow for the Celtics.
