Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis. Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

Kristaps Porzingis holds the keys to Celtics' title hopes

By Adam Taylor | Last updated Jun 1, 2024 6:20 PM ET

Kristaps Porzingis is expected to return from injury when the Boston Celtics begin their NBA Finals series against the Dallas Mavericks. The veteran big man has been absent with a right soleus strain. His presence within the Celtics rotation could provide them with the additional offense they will need to overcome Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.

During a recent appearance on ESPN's "Get Up," former Celtics champion Kendrick Perkins tipped Boston to be crowned NBA champions if Porzingis can remain healthy throughout the Finals.

"They have the best starting five in basketball," Perkins said. "I got them winning this series in seven games. Only if Kristaps Porzingis comes back. He's the most important player in this series. If he's back at least at 70%, then the Celtics are gonna win this series. Again, this is gonna be one for the ages."

"If Porzingis plays, I've got the Celtics in seven. But if he don't, I've got the Mavericks winning this series."

@kendrickperkins pic.twitter.com/idz6Sds1Fi
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) May 31, 2024

Porzingis played in 57 regular-season games for the Celtics. He averaged 20.1 points, 7.2 rebounds and two assists per game, shooting 51.6% from the field and 37.5% from three-point range. His ability to work on the perimeter will be key to the Celtics' overall offensive spacing.

Nevertheless, it will be the defensive end where Porzingis makes his biggest impact. His size makes him a genuine shot deterrent. Teams are often reluctant to attack the paint when the 7-foot-2 big man is hovering around the rim. His lateral quickness allows him to close out to shooters on the perimeter without too much risk of him being exploited when the offense drives at him.

Brad Stevens acquired Porzingis to be a difference-maker in the postseason. Boston has done a great job of remaining competitive while he's been out with injury. Nevertheless, having him back in the rotation will be a significant boost to Joe Mazzulla's team. If Pozingis can hit his perimeter shots, defend the rim and set well-timed screens, he will undoubtedly have a big role to play in the outcome of the series.

The Celtics are favorites to be crowned champions in mid-June. Porzingis' return could be what puts them over the top.

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

More must-reads: