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Despite Massive Deals for Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Major FIBA World Cup Update for NBA All-Star Might Worry the Celtics

Published 08/17/2023, 8:51 AM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

The Boston Celtics have spent every dollar possible building a star-studded lineup, laying the groundwork for what may be a successful run in the upcoming season. The dynamic duo of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum will surely serve as the backbone of a Celtics comeback. Notably, they secured one of the most lucrative deals in the league this offseason.

However, amidst the impressive deals, one of their key players recently announced a key update for the FIBA World Cup which might be concerning for the Celtics.

A concerning update awaits the Boston Celtics

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Jaylen Brown rewrote history with his five-year $304 million supermax contract with the Celtics, one of the biggest deals in the NBA. The contract will go into effect with the 2024–25 season. On the other hand, Jayson Tatum also penned a $338 million extension with the Celtics.

The latest addition of Kristaps Porzingis with a lucrative contract of $29.2 million adds another layer of strength to the team. While many were excited to see him on the roster, there were also concerns about his persistent injuries. And unfortunately, Kristaps Porzingis announced his diagnosis of plantar fasciitis Tuesday morning.

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Plantar fasciitis can be brought on by overuse, bad foot mechanics, or a variety of biomechanical causes. It often presents as stabbing pain at the bottom of the foot close to the heel. The pressure on an athlete’s feet can be more noticeable for someone of Porzingis’ stature and athletic style of play. Physical therapy, rest, and in some situations, orthotic devices, are common management techniques.

via Getty

Even though plantar fasciitis is not a serious medical ailment, it does present difficulties for Porzingis and his goals. The condition can cause discomfort and suffering in the heel and sole of the foot. With his diagnosis, he is forced to put an end to his plans to lead Latvia at the FIBA World Cup in 2023.

Meanwhile, Kendrick Perkins, a former Celtic player recently shed light on what this means for the Celtics.

Kendrick Perkins was not a huge fan of the trade

The Celtics’ choice to sign Porzingis has drawn criticism due to the assets they had to give up. Given the uncertainty surrounding Porzingis’ condition and his effectiveness in important situations, critics of the move have questioned if the trade-off was worthwhile.

Notably, Kendrick Perkin has openly admitted to not being a big supporter of the trade. He said, “I actually need to see it, I need to see Porzingis in those pressure moments, I need to see if his body is going to hold up through a long season and through a postseason where they’re trying to make a championship run.”

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The Celtics were initially hailed as favorites after acquiring Porzingis by several pundits and supporters. However, Perkins wasn’t on the Porzingis hype train. According to him, Porzingis’ history of injuries places him in the same availability category as stars like Anthony Davis and Kawhi Leonard.

The outcome of this trade ultimately depends on Porzingis’ capacity to perform on the court while controlling his history of injury. The skepticism surrounding this trade will likely endure among pundits and fans alike until concrete proof of his effectiveness and durability materializes.

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Watch This Story: Despite $304,000,000 Bombshell, Celtics Star Jaylen Brown Set to Lose Millions Only Due to Michael Jordan

What are your thoughts on Porzingis? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by:

Ranjitha Ramesh

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Ranjitha Ramesh is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. With a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication, Ranjitha has a strong foundation in reporting and writing. Her passion for basketball, particularly the Lakers and LeBron James, fuels her desire to delve into the lifestyle and off-court activities of NBA stars.
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Edited by:

Aayush Kapoor