When is Kristaps Porzingis coming back? NBA insider reports latest on Celtics star's return status for Conference finals

After the Boston Celtics made the conference finals, the attention has turned to star center Kristaps Porzingis' return status. NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski reported the latest on it during Friday's appearance on ESPN's NBA Countdown show.

Wojnarowski said Porzingis is expected to remain out for the first two games of the conference finals against the New York Knicks or Indiana Pacers, which begins Tuesday. However, he could return at some point in the series. That could be Game 3, too, barring any setbacks.

Porzingis missed all five games in the conference semis against the Cleveland Cavaliers and Game 5 against the Miami Heat in the first round. The Celtics only lost once in his absence. Al Horford has started in his place, while Luke Kornet has also played comparatively more in a backup role.

What happened to Kristaps Porzingis?

Porzingis injured his right calf in Game 4 against the Heat. It was a non-contact injury in the first half as Porzingis tried to run in the opposite direction with speed. The 28-year-old limped immediately after the attempt to explode off his right leg and exited the game shortly. It initially felt like a long-term Achilles issue, but that wasn't the case. The Celtics have cited a right soleus strain for his absences.

Kristaps Porzingis Stats in 2024 NBA Playoffs

Kristaps Porzingis had an up-and-down run in his four 2024 NBA Playoffs games against the Heat. He tallied 18 points, four rebounds and two blocks in his Celtics' postseason debut on 53.8% shooting, including 4 of 8 from 3.

However, Porzingis succumbed to the Heat's defensive schemes in Game 2. He could only produce six points on 1 of 9 shooting. Porzingis still made a solid impact defensively, with two blocks and three steals, proving why he's crucial for Boston's hopes of a championship run.

His offensive prowess was back on display in Game 3 with an 18-point outing on 5 of 9 shots. Porzingis added five rebounds and two blocks. He had seven points in 14 minutes in Game 4 before his injury exit.

Celtics seemingly cautious with Kristaps Porzingis

The Celtics realize their talent pool seems enough to run through the East without a pivotal piece like Kristaps Porzingis. They did that against the Heat and Cavaliers, and that's expected against the New York Knicks or Indiana Pacers, too.

Boston is better than anybody in the conference because of their postseason success and experience comparatively. That could allow them to take their time with Porzingis, especially with a calf strain, which if reaggravated, could force him to miss the finals if the Celtics prevail.