Kristaps Porzingis’ Boston “Celtics” passed the first round of the Eastern Conference of the National Basketball Association (NBA) this week, defeating the Miami “Heat” 4-1.
During the series, Porzingis suffered a calf muscle injury and his return to the field is not expected earlier than the conference finals, if the club qualifies for it.
After the series win over the Heat, the Celtics were praised for their performance in Game 5 of the series by Inside the NBA analyst Kenny Smith, saying he was able to watch a championship-caliber team.
At one point, the observer expressed that the club can really fight for the title if Porzingis returns to the lineup. His colleague Charles Barkley agreed.
“I agree with Kenny – without Porzingis, the “Celtics” will not win the title. I really believe that. The addition of him and Holiday allowed the Celtics to reach the next level.
If Porzingis doesn’t come back, then height centimeters can become one of the club’s weaknesses in the fight for the title.”
Centimeters of height can play a role already in the second round, where the Celtics have not yet known their opponent. “Cavaliers” and “Magic” will play the seventh match, with the winner securing a duel against the winner of the regular tournament.
“I know they prefer Cleveland because they could be easier opponents. Orlando has a lot of bodies, and the Celtics will miss Porzingis a lot against them. Cleveland only has two tall players, but Orlando has six.”
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