Report: Porzingis Could Return in Game 4 of Eastern Conference Finals

Report: Porzingis Could Return in Game 4 of Eastern Conference Finals originally appeared in NBC Sports Boston

Boston Celtics big man Kristaps Porzingis could return to action in Game 4 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers, by Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPNwho reports that there is “growing optimism” that Porzingis could be back for Game 4 as he “accelerates his on-court recovery and increases his fitness.”

Porzingis will attempt to return for the first time in almost a month after suffering a tension in the right calf in Game 4 of the first round against the Miami Heat. The Celtics still managed to find success without their primary presence and third-leading scorer, wrapping up the opening round against Miami and the conference semifinals series against the Cleveland Cavaliers in five games.

Not wanting to rush the 7-foot-2 big man, the Celtics relied on their depth. Replacing Porzingis as the starter, veteran Al Horford averaged 9.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists and one block during the conference semifinals, including 22 points, 15 rebounds, five assists and three blocks in Game 5.

Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum has placed additional emphasis on hitting the boards, averaging 10.4 rebounds per game in Porzingis’ absence, which is about two more than his regular-season average.

Before suffering the injury, Porzingis was averaging 12.3 points, 5 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.5 blocks and 1.3 steals per game in his four playoff appearances.