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Kristaps Porzingis’ Final Message Before Celtics-Hawks Trade Resurfaces

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jonathan D Adams | Last updated Jun 25, 2025 12:16 PM ET

The Atlanta Hawks were the surprising landing spot as the Boston Celtics traded Kristaps Porzingis in a three-team NBA deal on Tuesday. Additionally, the Brooklyn Nets were part of the trade to help facilitate the deal.

Atlanta now has another star to pair with Trae Young, Dyson Daniels, Zaccharie Risacher and a talented young core of players. Hawks fans appear to be feeling a mix of excitement and concern over Porzingis' health.

The former All-Star has missed significant time in nearly all of his ten NBA seasons. Most recently, Porzingis played in just 42 games averaging 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per contest during the 2024-25 season.

Hours before news broke of Porzingis making a move south, the big man took to Instagram in an attempt to put fans at ease about his health.

"Thanks for all the support and questions about my health," Porzingis said in an Instagram Story post on Tuesday featuring a photo of the ocean.

"I've been feeling excellent all off-season and looking forward to a healthy and strong European championship tournament with my (national team)."

I have been dealing with some viral illness that we haven't been able to fully identify yet. I am recovering and getting better. But still working my way back to full strenght to help this team. Thanks for support and Im hoping for a healthy return soon. pic.twitter.com/3HdJvdYRG3
— Kristaps Porzingis (@kporzee) March 11, 2025

The last time fans saw Porzingis on the court, the big man was battling a mysterious illness prior to the Celtics being eliminated by the New York Knicks in the second round of the NBA playoffs. Porzingis later took to X to send a heartfelt message to Celtics fans following the trade.

Atlanta Hawks:

— Trae Young
— Kristaps Porzingis
— Zaccharie Risacher
— Jalen Johnson
— Clint Capela
— Dyson Daniels
— Onyeka Okongwu

Sleeper in the East pic.twitter.com/RJpg5L3lt7
— StatMuse (@statmuse) June 24, 2025