The Boston Celtics are lacking serious momentum after suffering the third-largest loss in NBA Finals history in Game 4 against the Dallas Mavericks.
And things don't seem headed in the right direction. Center Kristaps Porzingis has dealt with injuries throughout the postseason, most recently a rare leg injury in Game 2 of the Finals. He was made available for their latest matchup, but coach Joe Mazzulla decided against playing him. It was clear his presence was missed, as the Celtics were out-rebounded 52-31.
Backup big man Xavier Tillman gave some insight on Porzingis' status ahead of Monday's game, and it seems the Celtics could be doomed to a second straight loss.
"I mean, we'll see obviously, like they said, it's a rare leg injury, so if he's in excruciating pain and can't be himself, it might not be worth it," Tillman said. "When we go through our practices, he's doing some stuff, but you can tell he's very uncomfortable."
Tillman also noted that "it's been pretty much the same" when discussing his day-to-day improvement.
Xavier Tillman on Kristaps Porzingis:
— Noa Dalzell 🏀 (@NoaDalzellNBA) June 16, 2024
"If he's in excruciating pain and can't be himself it might not be worth it."
"When we go through our practices, he's doing some stuff but you can tell he's very uncomfortable."
Any improvement?
"It's been pretty much the same." pic.twitter.com/EWfsUyfayn
The Mavs have a real chance to force a Game 7 if they're able to walk away victorious on Monday, as the series would head back to Dallas for Game 6.
