Kristaps Porzingis of the Boston Celtics is hopeful to be ready for Game 1 of the NBA Finals, though his left calf remains a concern.
“I’m not sure yet. We’ll have to wait and see,” said the 7-footer on Tuesday. “I have a few more days. I’ve been working hard to get back into shape and done everything necessary. The plan is to be available, but these next few days could be crucial. Each day gives me more time to improve.”
Porzingis has been sidelined since injuring his calf in Game 4 of Boston’s first-round series against Miami on April 29.
He described the rehabilitation as difficult, even though his team managed a 9-1 record in his absence, defeating Cleveland and Indiana to secure a Finals matchup with the Dallas Mavericks, Porzingis’ former team from 2019-22.
“It’s been a tough journey, no doubt,” Porzingis admitted. “I’ve tried to stay involved, support the team, do my work, and stay connected.”
Recently, the Latvian center has increased his activity on the court, participating in light 5-on-5 drills with the team, although full scrimmages have been avoided.
