Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis is expected to miss Games 1 and 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals due to a strain in his right calf, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported Friday night.
According to the NBA insider, there is optimism that Porzingis could return for Boston at some point in the series, though.
Porzingis has been out after sustaining the injury in Game 5 of the Celtics’ first-round series against the Heat.
Kristaps Porzingis, right, watches from the bench as the Cleveland Cavaliers lead the Celtics during the second half of Game 2 of the series. AP Explore More
But even without the 7-foot-2 big man, the Celtics handily won their second-round series against the Cavaliers.
Al Horford stepped up and into Porzingis’ spot in the Eastern Conference semis, notching an impressive 22 points, 15 rebounds, five assists and three blocks against Cleveland in the Game 5 clincher.
Still, the Celtics likely want Porzingis back in his starting spot.
Kristaps Porzingis #8 of the Boston Celtics leaves the game against the Miami Heat during the second quarter after suffering a calf injury. Getty Images Porzingis averaged 20 points and 7.2 rebounds during a strong regular season, his first in Boston.
The Celtics are now awaiting the winner of the second-round series between the Knicks and Pacers.
The Knicks lead the series 3-2 with Game 6 on Friday night.
