The Boston Celtics on Wednesday announced a new injury to one-time All-Star center Kristaps Porziņģis — “a torn medial retinaculum allowing dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon in his left leg.”
The statement describes the condition as a “rare injury.” His availability for the rest of the NBA Finals “will be determined day-to-day,” the team said. Boston leads the Dallas Mavericks in the series, 2-0.
The Celtics said the injury occurred at the 3:27 mark of the third quarter in Game 2. This play — a box-out collision with Mavericks center Dereck Lively II — is the only evidence of any potential leg injury:
Porziņģis moved more gingerly on his left leg after the collision, particularly on the next several possessions, as he was attempting to close out on shooters. He remained in the game for an additional 2:45, subbed out, retreated to the locker room, and then played 3:26 more in the fourth quarter.
Prior to Game 1 of the NBA Finals, Porziņģis missed 36 days, spanning both the Eastern Conference semifinals and finals, with a soleus strain in his right calf. His latest injury is “unrelated,” the team said.
Check back soon for more details.