Kristaps Porzingis shows why he could continue to provide a spark for Celtics in impressive showing vs. Bulls

Porzingis has been on a tear recently. In 12 games in January, he has averaged 20.5 points per game and shot 50.7 percent from three-point range. 

"Honestly, my shot is feeling way smoother and way nicer the last, five to seven, eight games," Porzingis said in a postgame interview with Abby Chin of NBC Sports Boston. "That's pretty much it. My shot's falling, in better shape, playing with some joy and tonight is a good night." 

Porzingis' improved health could also be a factor. He underwent ankle surgery this past offseason and didn't make his debut until Nov. 25. 

In his interview with Chin, Porzingis said he felt taking more time off in the summer contributed to a slow start, but he now feels he's in midseason form. 

Boston (33-15) is second in the Eastern Conference behind the Cleveland Cavaliers (38-9). The reigning champions must be more efficient offensively to catch Cleveland.

Entering Wednesday's matchup against the Bulls, the Celtics ranked 19th in the league in field-goal percentage (45.7 percent) and 13th in three-point percentage (36.5 percent).

However, those numbers could improve with Porzingis recently rediscovering his shooting stroke.   

"It's tough. It's scary. When [Porzingis] is shooting the ball like that with confidence," Celtics guard Jaylen Brown said in a postgame news conference. "That opens it up for everybody else. That's what I like to see."

On Friday, the Celtics will face the New Orleans Pelicans (12-36) in a road game. They could certainly use another lights-out performance from Porzingis.