Celtics Injury Update: Will Kristaps Porzingis Play Tonight vs the 76ers After Missing the Last 2 Games?

Boston Celtics host the Philadelphia 76ers at the TD Garden tonight. Kristaps Porzingis, the big man of the Celtics, sustained a calf injury against Orlando Magic. As a result, he missed the games against the Chicago Bulls and Atlanta Hawks. With the Celtics facing bitter rivals 76ers, Boston fans are yearning to have their big man back.

It is the third time in over three weeks that the two teams will face each other. Sixers won the first contest with 106-103. The second battle saw Boston taking revenge with 117-107. Celtics, moreover, are at the top of the Eastern Conference with a 14-4 record. The possible return of Kristaps will certainly help them extend their dominance.

Will Kristaps Porzingis’ return bolster Boston?

Kristaps suffered a left calf strain during the match against Orlando Magic. He has been absent for the past two games. The NBA star, however, has been making progress. He recently shared that he will be returning to action soon but his words hinted that it could be after Friday’s game. He may miss the encounter against the 76ers as a result.  “I think, very soon. Very soon,” Porzingis said, “Not 100 percent sure if it’s going to be the next game, but hopefully right after that.”

Many speculate that Kristaps is planning to get back on court on Monday. The Celtics will face the Indiana Pacers in the quarterfinals of the NBA In-season tournament. Head coach of Celtics, Joe Mazzulla said on November 26 that the star will be re-evaluated soon and the official word about his return is around the corner.

While Celtics fans would be disappointed seeing their main man out, the situation is even more grim for the fans of the 76ers.

 Celtics to face an injured 76ers lineup

Al Horford stepped into the shoes of Kristaps at the starting center. Boston will also try to get confidence from the 117-107 win against the 76ers where they went without Kristaps and Jaylen Brown.

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However, with the reigning MVP Joel Embiid not participating in the last game against the Pelicans, he is questionable against the Celtics. With Jaden Springer also missing the last three games and woes around Nic Batum, fortunes look bleak for the 76ers. The fans will look at Tyrese Maxey to fill the void. And Kelly Oubre returning after fracturing ribs will also serve as a ray of hope.

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