Celtics Get Boost As Kristaps Porzingis Nears Return For NBA Finals

Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis is reportedly on track to return to action in time for the NBA Finals, which is set to begin on Thursday night against the Dallas Mavericks. Porzingis has been sidelined since suffering a left calf strain in Game 4 of Boston's first-round playoff series against the Miami Heat on April 29.

The Boston Celtics are set to welcome back a key piece to their lineup as they prepare for the NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks. Center Kristaps Porzingis, who has been sidelined with a left calf strain since April 29, is reportedly on track to return to action in time for the series opener on Thursday night.

Porzingis, a 7-foot big man, has been a key contributor for the Celtics this season, averaging 20.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. His return will provide a significant boost to Boston's frontcourt, which has been led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown in the playoffs.

Porzingis has been participating in practice over the past few days and is expected to be available for the Celtics in Game 1 of the Finals. His presence will give Boston a much-needed boost in size and athleticism, as well as providing another scoring option alongside Tatum and Brown.

"When KP is at his best, he's been tremendous for us," Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said. "We expected that from him, and we know he'll give that to us."

The Celtics have been playing well in Porzingis' absence, sweeping the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. However, the addition of Porzingis will give them another weapon to utilize against the Mavericks, who have been led by Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.

Porzingis' return is a major development for the Celtics, who have lost in the Eastern Conference Finals and NBA Finals in the previous two seasons. They are hoping that Porzingis can help them break through and win their first NBA championship since 2008.

In addition to Porzingis' return, the Celtics are also expected to get Robert Williams III back in the lineup for the Finals. Williams has been sidelined with a knee injury since Game 3 of the first round, but he is expected to be available for Game 1.

The Celtics will open the NBA Finals at home on Thursday night at the TD Garden. Game 2 will be played on Sunday night, also in Boston. The series will then shift to Dallas for Games 3 and 4 on Tuesday and Thursday.

The Celtics are looking to win their 18th NBA championship, which would tie them with the Los Angeles Lakers for the most titles in league history. The Mavericks are seeking their first NBA title in franchise history.