Even nursing an injury, Kristaps Porzingis will be a game-changer for Celtics

If Porzingis does suit up, it will likely be on a heavy minutes restriction and subject to change. Still, his presence on the floor would be a major bonus to a Celtics team that could take complete control of its NBA Finals series against the Dallas Mavericks. The Celtics are up 2-0. If they win Game 3, they will be one win away from being crowned champions. 

Porzingis was a catalyst in Boston's dominant Game 1 performance and also played a role in Game 2 before suffering an injury. Even if he isn't at 100%, his presence on the court will open things up for his teammates. Boston could use Porzingis as a catch-and-shoot or pick-and-pop threat on offense while asking him to operate as a shot-deterrent drop defender. 

However, Joe Mazzulla must be confident Porzingis can run the floor and withstand the physicality of playing in the NBA Finals. If the medical staff clears him to play, Porzingis can still impact Boston's chances of making it 3-0. Boston is undefeated on the road during the postseason. 

The Mavericks are the team under pressure heading into Wednesday's game. They will see a glimmer of hope if Porzingis is ruled out. Yet, if he's cleared to play, their chances of getting a foothold back in this series will remain slim. Boston already projects to be the 2024 NBA champions. Porzingis' health will only serve to delay or expedite the inevitable.