The Celtics are getting a big boost ahead of the NBA Finals.
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium, Kristaps Porzingis has completed multiple scrimmages in recent days and is expected to return to action for Game 1 of the NBA Finals vs. Dallas on Thursday night, barring any setbacks.
Porzingis has been sidelined with a calf strain since April 29, causing him to miss the last 10 games. Despite his absence, the Celtics managed a 9-1 record during this stretch, securing a spot in the NBA Finals.
The 28-year-old, known as “The Unicorn,” has been crucial for the Celtics. At 7-foot-2, he provides Boston with the rim protection it needs, while his offensive capabilities, including scoring from all three levels, setting screens, stretching the floor, and generating inside touches, pose challenges for opponents.
“[He is] probably the most important guy on our team for what we’re trying to accomplish,” Jayson Tatum said of Porzingis during Boston’s first-round series with the Miami Heat. “When he’s protecting the rim, contesting shots, we’re a whole different team.”
The big man averaged 20.1 points and 7.2 rebounds on 51.6% shooting from the floor and 37.5% shooting from three in his first season in Boston. His return against a talented Mavericks frontcourt will undeniably be a difference-maker.
“KP is one of the best scorers. He’s one of our best rim protectors, and I feel like we’re all mature enough to get back in the groove or have him fit right back in whenever he comes back,” Jrue Holiday said. “We do want KP back. We can’t wait for him to be back and be a part of this on the court.”
As Porzingis prepares to return, it remains to be seen if he will be on any minute restriction and how quickly he can shake off the rust after being out for over a month with his calf strain. However, with Porzingis back in the lineup, the Celtics will head into the NBA Finals at full strength, with two more practices scheduled before Game 1 on Thursday night.