Kristaps’ Summer isn’t going to be an easy one.
Boston Celtics forward/center Kristaps Porzi??is is set to miss the opening months of the 2024-25 NBA season following surgery to address a torn retinaculum and a dislocated posterior tibialis tendon.
The Celtics organization has indicated that Porzi??is will require approximately five to six months for recovery, suggesting a possible return to the court in late November or December.
Porzi??is, who had a standout first season with Boston, averaging 20.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists while maintaining a 37.5 percent shooting accuracy from three-point range, shared an update on his health post-surgery via social media. “Everything went smooth,” he reported, providing a reassuring note to fans and teammates alike.
RELATED: Kristaps Porzingis’ Girlfriend is Trending Amid Hot Start For Boston Celtics
The injury occurred during Game 2 of the 2024 NBA Finals, sidelining Porzi??is for Games 3 and 4. Despite this setback, he made a significant return in Game 5, contributing to the Celtics’ victory over the Dallas Mavericks to clinch the championship. This resilience highlights his importance to the team, both as a player and a morale booster.
Looking ahead to the next season, Porzi??is’ temporary absence could lead to strategic shifts within the Celtics’ lineup.
Veteran player Al Horford is expected to fill the starting role during Porzi??is’ recovery. Horford, who stepped into the starting lineup previously when Porzi??is was out with a calf injury during the playoffs, has proven to be a reliable substitute.
Last season, Porzi??is transitioned to a bench role during his three appearances in the Finals, a change from his usual starting position throughout his career.
At 28 years old and with a history as a consistent starter, Porzi??is might find adjusting to a reserve role challenging if the scenario requires it, especially if the team performs exceptionally well with Horford starting.
This situation could necessitate discussions about Porzi??is’ role upon his return, depending on the team’s dynamics and performance in his absence.
Injury has been a recurring theme in Porzi??is’ NBA career, limiting his availability season after season. He has never participated in more than 72 games in any single season and has missed at least 15 games in each of the last eight seasons.
With his latest surgery, it is almost certain that this pattern will extend into a ninth season, underscoring the ongoing challenges he faces in maintaining his fitness and form on the basketball court.
