Celtics Secure Dominant Win Over Cavs in NBA Playoffs without Porzingis, Sparking Speculation about His Return

The Boston Celtics secured a dominant 120-95 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals without their star big man Kristaps Porzingis. The Latvian center was sidelined with a right soleus strain that occurred during Game 4 against the Miami Heat.

Following the victory, NBC Sports Boston’s Chris Forsberg provided an update on Porzingis, stating that he saw him walking out of the building perfectly fine. This sparked speculation among fans about a possible sooner-than-expected return for Porzingis. However, initial reports had suggested that he would be out for one to two weeks.

Coach Joe Mazzulla later revealed that the injury may not be as severe as originally thought, aligning with Forsberg’s observation after the game where he noticed Porzingis walking without any signs of discomfort. Despite this apparent readiness, there is no rush to bring him back, especially if the Celtics can continue their winning streak without him. With a 23-4 record on the season without Porzingis, the team may opt to rest him until his return is truly necessary.

The Celtics will face the Cavaliers again in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Thursday night. NBC Sports Boston’s coverage will begin at 6 p.m. with Celtics Pregame Live before the action tips off at 7 p.m. ET at TD Garden.