Boston Celtics
NBA
The Orlando Magic and Cleveland Cavaliers forced a Game 7 in their first-round series on Friday night at the Kia Center.For the Boston Celtics, who are now missing Kristaps Porzingis, that is great news.
The former All-Star’s right calf injury, which he sustained late in Boston’s Game 4 victory over the Miami Heat, was diagnosed as a mild soleus strain. Given that the recovery period is two to three weeks, it is likely that Porzingis won’t play again until the Eastern Conference Finals, assuming his team wins against the Magic or Cavaliers.
The product of Latvia gave an update on when he expects to return to the Celtics’ postseason run as he focused on his rehabilitation.
On Saturday at the Auerbach Center, Porzingis added, “We’re treating it accordingly,” in reference to what the team’s medical staff had informed him about his injury.
“Every day I’m getting better.Thus, I would say that (I’m) in a pleasant mood today and every day.Naturally, it’s disappointing to be away from my guys and unable to play, but I’m doing everything I can right now to return as soon as I can.”
The seven-foot-three center went on, “You know, it’s not nothing, it’s something. Thus, it will undoubtedly take some time. However, I’m making every effort to expedite the process because I want to get back out there as soon as possible.
However, I understand that aggravating it further would likely be the worst case scenario.Hence, exercising intelligence. The details of it would need to be inquired about with the medical professionals.I’m sort of just going with the flow, but I do have plans to return as soon as I start feeling better.”
“I’m not on the floor just yet,” he said.”However, I anticipate getting started pretty soon. Remaining in the weight room, continuing to move and gradually increasing in all those aspects. And I’d say there’s a lot of progress every day. Though it’s still relatively new, things are getting better.”
The day after Thanksgiving, in a loss to the Magic, the 28-year-old center had an injury similar to this one. But time is no longer a luxury that he can afford.
“I believe I was absent for about a week and a half,” Porzingis said on Saturday.But we were quite cautious and did it very slowly.This time around, I would think it will be considerably more aggressive because of the season we are in.However, I’m being wise, taking things day by day, week by week, and simply observing my development while, yes, hoping for lightning-fast results.”
Sadly, there’s a significant distinction between that ailment and the one he’s currently battling with.
The veteran of seven years declared, “This one is stronger.”Indeed, it’s worse.It’s definitely a little bit worse, even though I didn’t want to use that word.And yes, it will probably just take me a little bit longer.but maintaining an optimistic outlook.”
Porzingis stated that it’s too early in the rehab process to set a target date for his return to the lineup. He plans to travel with the Celtics for away games, but he still needs to consult with the team’s medical staff. Porzingis is focusing on his recuperation and maintaining a positive attitude.
“An exact date is not specified.Of course, it’s still quite early. I believe that when I accomplish more things, it will become more evident. That will be more evident if I am working on more projects. Yes, but not quite that close yet.Not quite there yet. however, anticipating a historically rapid recovery.”
As of right now, Porzingis stated, he needs to “control the inflammation – start to do some movements and stuff without stretching it too much, and I had a pretty good day today.” I made some progress; I’ll resume my new activities today, work on some recovery activities tomorrow, and, hopefully, make a significant leap once more on Monday. Daily, there’s (a) rather large jump every day. I anticipate a great Monday and will proceed from there.”
Adopting a “win the day” attitude, akin to the Celtics, will facilitate his recuperation and maintain his positive outlook while he strives to resume their pursuit of Banner 18.
