The Boston Celtics blew a 20-point lead in a second consecutive game to fall 2-0 behind against the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Game 2 was more of the same for Celtics fans as Boston struggled to create good looks against the Knicks defense, going through a scoring drought and allowing NY to come back in the fourth quarter.
As the Celtics truly have their backs against the wall for the first time in the last two seasons, a major cause of concern is Kristaps Porzingis. After exiting the series opener on Monday early due to illness, the Latvian big man began Game 2 on the bench. He only played 14 minutes and didn't look like himself, especially on the defensive end. He finished with one defensive rebound and three personal fouls in that span, with the Celtics losing his minutes by nine points.
Porzingis addressed what has been ailing him after the game. Speaking to the media, the 29-year-old center revealed that he is dealing with an issue related to his previous illness and that he isn't feeling right. Looking visibly upset and frustrated, Porzingis said that it "kills him inside" that this is happening right now, per Celtics insider Bob Manning.
Kristaps Porzingis Reveals Frustrating Illness That is Limiting Him on the Court
Porzingis had missed over two weeks of action in late February and early March due to a viral illness that the medical team was having trouble identifying. He was able to return on March 15 and was available for Boston down the stretch, but has been trying to play himself into shape ever since.
The fact that he is still dealing with symptoms related to that illness is not a good sign. Porzingis' lack of energy was obvious during his stint on Wednesday night, and it's clearly having an impact on him as he clearly desperately wants to be out there helping his team.
With the series heading to New York, the Celtics need their big man back to have a chance at an improbable comeback. Let's hope that Porzingis is able to feel better and get back on the court looking like himself.