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Celtics remain unconcerned following Porzingis' early exit in Game 2
  • Game coverage - story, NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Mavericks
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    Celtics remain unconcerned following Porzingis’ early exit in Game 2

    Good news all around after the Boston Celtics‘ Game 2 win over the Dallas Mavericks.

    Though fans may have held their breath late into the 105-98 victory after Kristaps Porzingis left the game, head coach Joe Mazzulla let them all exhale in his post-game press conference, saying that he had no concerns about the big man’s health.

    “Zero. He’s good,” the coach said.

    Porzingis suffered the scare midway through the fourth quarter after stumbling over Mavericks forward P.J. Washington and falling to the ground while contesting a defensive rebound.

    He was slow to get up and seemed to be labouring before eventually being taken out with 4:40 left to play.

    The big man said after the game that the plan is to get imaging done on Monday but is confident he’ll be able to suit up for Game 3. He has yet to play a game in Dallas since being traded from the Mavericks in 2022.

    There were concerns before the series that Porzingis may not be playing at 100 per cent after missing most of the playoffs due to a calf injury suffered in the first round. However, he silenced any doubts after a stellar Game 1 performance that saw him score 20 points and block three shots in 20 minutes off the bench.

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    Porzingis didn’t steal the show as much in Game 2, tallying 12 points, four rebounds and two blocks in 23 minutes off the bench, but his shot-blocking prowess and paint defence were felt nonetheless.

    Porzingis is expected to be back in the Celtics lineup as they head to Dallas for Game 3 on Wednesday.

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    Celtics’ defence stifles Mavericks to earn 2-0 series lead in NBA Finals

    The Boston Celtics are remaining calm and focused following Kristaps Porzingis’ early exit in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks. The star forward left the game in the third quarter with a knee injury, and his absence could have a significant impact on the series.

    Despite the potential advantage of facing a weakened Mavericks team, the Celtics are not taking anything for granted. Head coach Brad Stevens emphasized the need for his team to stay focused and continue to execute their game plan, regardless of who is on the court for the Mavericks.

    “We can’t control what happens on the other side,” Stevens said. “We have to focus on what we can control, which is our effort and execution. We have a lot of respect for the Mavericks and we know they are a dangerous team, even without Porzingis.”

    The Celtics are also aware that injuries can happen to any player at any time, and they know they must be prepared to face adversity and adjust their game plan accordingly. Forward Jayson Tatum echoed this sentiment, saying, “Injuries are a part of the game, and we have to be ready to step up and fill the void if someone goes down. We have a deep roster and we trust each other to step up when needed.”

    While Porzingis’ injury could potentially shift the momentum in the Celtics’ favor, they are not taking anything for granted and are prepared to face a tough challenge from the Mavericks in Game 3. The Celtics remain focused on their goal of advancing in the playoffs and are determined to stay locked in and ready for whatever comes their way.