2 min read • June 05, 2024
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As we head into the 2024 NBA Finals, there are numerous compelling storylines to follow, including Kyrie Irving facing his former team and the Boston Celtics competing in their second Finals in three years. At sicscore.com, the focus is the angles that emerge from our injury analysis. Listed below is each teams key issue heading into the Finals:
Kristaps Porzingis of the Boston Celtics missed most of their playoff run due to a right soleus calf injury sustained in Game 4 of Round 1. This injury significantly impacted the Celtics' strategy and rotations as they navigated the subsequent rounds without their key big man. Early medical opinions at sicscore.com suggested that it would be difficult for Porzingis to play through this injury, given the strain it places on his calf, which is crucial for a player of his stature and role on the court. Despite his absence, the Celtics showcased their depth and resilience, progressing to the NBA Finals for the second time in three years. Optimism surrounds Porzingis' return, with Pro Basketball Docs indicating he is expected to start in Game 1 against the winner of the Timberwolves/Mavericks series. The extended recovery period has allowed him to heal sufficiently, enabling him to rejoin his teammates at this critical juncture. Not known for his speed or cutting, Porzingis should be able to return to his usual style of play with minimal limitations. While there may be some initial concerns about his defensive capabilities, overall expectations are that he will perform at his typical level. His scoring ability and shot-blocking presence will be crucial for the Celtics' success, and he is anticipated to contribute significantly to Boston's quest for another championship.
Dallas Mavericks star Luka Dončić is managing both knee and ankle injuries during the Mavericks' playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. He initially suffered a knee sprain in Game 3 of the first round against the Los Angeles Clippers and has been wearing a bulky right knee brace since then. More recently, he incurred a left ankle injury in Game 3 of the second round against the Thunder. Despite these setbacks, Dončić has performed at a high level, demonstrating his ability to push through the pain. According to our panel of Pro Basketball Docs, his situation is primarily a matter of pain management, and he has acknowledged that his knee injury won't fully heal until the offseason, potentially requiring clean-up surgery. Given the significant minutes he plays, his performance might be impacted game to game, especially by his knee issue but is not in danger of missing time in Finals.
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