Knicks Stage Another Comeback To Take 2-0 Lead Over Celtics
The New York Knicks recovered from a 20-point deficit again to defeat the Boston Celtics 91-90 and take a 2-0 series lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
unbranded – Sport
When the series between the Knicks and Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals began, one of the biggest storylines centered on Boston forward Kristaps Porzingis going up against his former team on a massive stage.
But through the first two games of the series, Porzingis hasn’t been available much – and the Celtics have suffered.
Battling an illness – the exact type is unknown publicly – Porzingis played 13 minutes in Game 1 (a 108-105 Knicks overtime victory) and 14 minutes in Game 2 (a 91-90 Knicks victory). He went scoreless in the first game before scoring eight in the second.
Now with the series shifting to Madison Square Garden for Game 3, his status is uncertain.
Speaking to reporters following Game 2 at TD Garden, Porzingis didn’t have many answers on what was ailing him.
“I’m dealing with some, I don’t know how to call it, I’m just not feeling my best,” Porzingis said. “I’m not feeling my best at all. But it just kills me inside that it’s happening at this moment.”
Porzingis then said it’s “no injury or nothing.”
“I’ve had ups and downs up until this point,” Porzingis said. “Just had a big crash now. My energy and everything hasn’t been good. But who cares? I have to look forward and it’ll get better from this point on.”
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla expressed some optimism Thursday, saying the team knows what the illness is and have been treating it. He also expressed optimism that the two days off between Games 2 and 3 could help.
Mazzulla said the illness has affected Porzingis’ fatigue and breathing.
Check back for updates on Porzingis’ status heading into Game 3.
Pre-Game 3 update: Kristaps Porzingis “feeling better”
When he spoke to reporters about 90 minutes prior to Game 3, Mazzulla said he hadn’t yet spoken to Porzingis, but said the forward was feeling better on Friday.
Porzingis is available for the game, though not in the starting lineup.
