What is torn medial retinaculum? Kristaps Porzingis' rare injury explored

Kristaps Porzingis made a triumphant return in Game 1 of the NBA Finals when he posted 20 points, six rebounds and three blocks. However, he suffered a torn medial retinaculum from Game 2, as per The Athletic's Shams Charania. The injury occurred with just 3:27 minutes left to go in the third quarter.

What is a torn medial retinaculum? Sports medicine doctor Brian Sutterer, MD, posted on X with a concise description of the injury.

"The medial retinaculum is like a seat belt that keeps the tendons in place as they course around the inside of the ankle bone." Sutterer said. "There are three tendons that travel along the inside of the ankle, and that seatbelt keeps them secured in place. The posterior tibialis tendon is one of said tendons."

While it remains to be seen if Porzingis will be eligible enough to play tomorrow on the road, this latest development is a blow for the Celtics forward, who worked tremendously to get back on the court. He originally suffered a right calf strain in Game 4 of the quarterfinal round against the Miami Heat.

When available on the court, Kristaps Porzingis provides a different kind of edge offensively and defensively. His shotmaking ability helps the team's spacing, which allows Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to dominate at the perimeter. His rim protection is no slouch due to his length and commendable lateral movement.

Additionally, Boston's medical team has listed Porzingis as day-to-day, with Game 3 scheduled for Wednesday night. Boston Celtics' coach Joe Mazzulla described the injury as "serious" and will await the medical staff's decision tomorrow.

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Kristaps Porzingis talked about his injury and day-to-day status for Game 3 of the NBA Finals

During media interviews, Kristaps Porzingis remained in good spirits despite his playing status for Game 3 being a concern.

"I'm optimistic," Porzingis said (via NBC Sports). "As I said, I will do everything I can to be out there tomorrow and we'll see. ... Nothing is going to stop me unless I'm told I'm not allowed to play [by the medical staff]. ... Obviously this is a rough patch, you know, coming back and having something happen right away, it's tough."

Despite Mazzulla considering the severity of the injury, Porzingis' availability will still depend on the medical team's evaluation tomorrow.

In the scenario that he is sidelined, Celtics fans can expect Al Horford's minutes to ramp up once again. When it comes to substitutions, Mazzulla can split Luke Kornet's and Xavier Tillman's minutes in the hopes of gaining quality contributions.