Kristaps Porzingis doubtful for Game 3 of NBA Finals due to injury

Kristaps Porzingis hasn't played in Dallas since the Mavericks traded him nearly two and a half years ago, and it's unclear if he'll play there in Game 3 of the NBA Finals for the Boston Celtics. Porzingis suffered an uncommon tendon injury in his lower left leg in the third quarter of Boston's 105-98 triumph, giving them a 2-0 lead in the series. 

Boston Celtics claimed Tuesday that he was day-to-day, and Porzingis stated that he would do everything possible to play Wednesday night. When asked whether it was a pain tolerance issue or if he might inflict more harm, Porzingis claimed he didn't know the details.

Kristaps Porzingis has a rip in the tissue that holds the tendons in place. The Celtics maintained it had nothing to do with the right calf issue that had kept him out for ten straight postseason games until he returned last Thursday for the opening of the NBA Finals.

Injury took place in Game 2

The Celtics stated that the injury happened at 3:27 of the third quarter in Game 2. This play, a box-out collision with Maverick’s center Dereck Lively II, is the sole indication of a possible leg injury. Porziņgis walked cautiously on his left leg after the incident, especially on subsequent possessions to close out on shooters. He stayed in the game for another 2:45 before subbing out, returning to the locker room, and playing 3:26 more in the fourth quarter.

Porzingis was wearing slides rather than sneakers when he talked with reporters before practice. On his off day, he walked with a minor limp and wore a black sleeve that covered his lower left leg. Porzingis started the Celtics off with 11 points and two blocks in the first quarter of their 107-89 victory and finished with 20 points, three blocks, and six rebounds. He scored 12 points in 23 minutes during Game 2.