The Boston Celtics (47-18) currently sit second in the Eastern Conference as they attempt to repeat as NBA champions. Despite winning over 72% of their games this season, Boston trails the first place Cleveland Cavaliers by eight games.
The Celtics have been unable to truly gain cohesion and shake the injury bug this season, with over half of their roster missing at least 10 games due to injury. One star has been out since Feb. 26 and has only played 32 games due to an unusual ailment.
When Will Veteran Center Kristaps Porziņģis Return to the Celtics’ Lineup?
One key piece of the Celtics rotation is center Kristaps Porziņģis. The center hasn’t played since logging 26 minutes against the Detroit Pistons in a lopsided loss.
Speculation is abound on Porziņģis’ ailment, but he recently shed light on his current situation, stopping short of giving a definitive timetable for a return.
“I have been dealing with some viral illness that we haven’t been able to fully identify yet,” Porziņģis announced on his X account. “I am recovering and getting better. But still working my way back to full [strength] to help this team. Thanks for support and Im hoping for a healthy return soon.”
I have been dealing with some viral illness that we haven't been able to fully identify yet. I am recovering and getting better. But still working my way back to full strenght to help this team. Thanks for support and Im hoping for a healthy return soon. 🙏💚 pic.twitter.com/3HdJvdYRG3
— Kristaps Porzingis (@kporzee) March 11, 2025
Porziņģis has been sidelined for the last six games in what the Celtics were calling a non-COVID-19 illness. The big man has struggled to stay on the court since entering the league in 2015, never playing in more than 72 games during a season.
During the Celtics’ championship run last season, Porziņģis played in just 57 games due to a variety of ankle, back, quad, and hamstring ailments.
If the Celtics are to repeat as champions this season, a healthy Porziņģis in the frontcourt during the playoffs would be crucial. He only played in seven of Boston’s 19 postseason games in the title run, but it’s no guarantee they will be as successful in the playoffs in his absence again in 2025.
For the season, Porziņģis is averaging 18.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game when on the court.