The wait is finally over for Celtics fans eagerly anticipating the debut of their prized offseason acquisition. According to league sources, star center Kristaps Porzingis is set to make his first appearance in Celtic green on Monday night when Boston hosts the LA Clippers at TD Garden.
Porzingis, who arrived in Boston via a blockbuster trade this summer, has been sidelined since undergoing foot surgery in late June. The 7-foot-3 Latvian has been diligently rehabbing and gradually ramping up his activity in recent weeks, participating in scrimmages with both the Celtics and their G League affiliate in Maine.
A Champion’s Triumphant Return
The news of Porzingis’ impending return is sure to energize a Celtics squad already sitting atop the Eastern Conference standings. The skilled big man played an integral role in helping Boston capture its record 18th NBA championship last season, memorably battling through a calf strain in the first round before suffering a rare tendon injury in Game 2 of the Finals.
Undeterred, Porzingis fought his way back to contribute valuable minutes off the bench in Games 3, 4, and the decisive Game 5, hoisting the Larry O’Brien trophy for the first time in his career. Now fully healthy, he’ll look to help the Celtics in their quest to repeat.
A Methodical Rehab Process
Boston’s training staff has taken a meticulous approach to Porzingis’ recovery, setting specific metrics for him to achieve at each stage. The focus has been on building full-body balance and strength to support the healing of his surgically repaired foot.
“We wanted to be absolutely certain that KP’s body was prepared to handle the rigors of NBA action again,” a team source told ESPN. “He’s been a model patient, attacking his rehab with the same tenacity he brings to the court. We couldn’t be more thrilled to have him back.”
Porzingis By The Numbers
When healthy, the 27-year-old is one of the most uniquely talented players in the league. Last season, Porzingis averaged an impressive stat line across the board:
- 20.1 points per game
- 7.2 rebounds per game
- 2.0 assists per game
- 1.9 blocks per game
His ability to stretch the floor (35% on nearly five 3-point attempts per game for his career), protect the rim, and score from all three levels makes him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses. Alongside superstars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Porzingis forms arguably the most talented frontcourt trio in the NBA.
Clashing With The Clippers
Porzingis couldn’t ask for a much tougher test in his first game back. The Clippers boast a formidable frontline featuring perennial All-Stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. With both LA and Boston harboring championship aspirations, Monday’s tilt could very well be a preview of the 2025 Finals.
“I’ve been dreaming of this moment for months,” Porzingis told reporters at shootaround. “I know it won’t be easy against a team of the Clippers’ caliber, but I’m as prepared as I can possibly be. I intend to come out, be aggressive, and do whatever it takes to help my team win.”
As a raucous TD Garden crowd welcomes back a critical piece of Banner 18, all eyes will be on Porzingis to see if he can recapture his All-Star form. With the foundation of last year’s title team still firmly intact, a healthy Porzingis may be the final piece that propels Boston to the top of the NBA mountain once again.
