The Boston Celtics look a lot different to a team that prides itself on depth and versatility when Kristaps Porzingis isn’t on the floor. He isn’t just a towering presence, he’s the glue that holds their system together. With the ability to stretch the floor, protect the rim, and deliver a reliable scoring option, he is one of Boston’s most valuable players.
That’s why his absence in last night’s game against the Raptors wasn’t just a minor inconvenience—it was a red flag. Their dominance was not the same without him. Head coach Joe Mazzulla admitted the decision to sideline Kristaps Porzingis came at the last minute, hinting that it was more precautionary than anything else. But with his availability still in question for tonight’s matchup against the Detroit Pistons, the Celtics could be in for a much tougher challenge than expected.
Celtics’ Injury Report: Kristaps Porzingis’ Status in Question
Boston’s injury list may not be long, but it’s significant. Kristaps Porzingis remains day-to-day with a non-COVID illness, and while Mazzulla suggested they rested him to ensure he’d be ready for this game, his status is still uncertain. Given his impact on both ends of the floor, the Celtics will be closely monitoring his condition.
Joe Mazzulla says he found out Kristaps Porzingis (non-Covid illness) was out about a minute before the game.
“Wasn’t feeling well, and at the same time, we wanted to make sure that we’ll have him for tomorrow. So, we kind of all made that decision together.” pic.twitter.com/ovPcZ5JgaT
— Bobby Krivitsky (@BobbyKrivitsky) February 26, 2025
Al Horford (toe) is also day-to-day. He turns 39 this offseason and the Celtics have done a nice job managing his workload, avoiding hard post-game and back-to-back situations. Boston’s frontcourt depth will be tested quite severely without him. Luke Kornet is also not present for the game but that’s due to personal matters and not some injury. This means both Xavier Tillman and notes Queta could be thrust into bigger roles.
Boston has a defensive rating of 111.1 when Porzingis is on the court and in his absence, the Celtics’ defense could duck considerably. In the paint, his presence keeps the Celtics’ interior defense sound, adjusts shot distance, and keeps drivers away. Without him, teams attack the rim more aggressively and Detroit will try to take advantage of that.
Can the Celtics Handle Detroit’s Momentum?
The Pistons aren’t just winning—they’re making a statement. Cade Cunningham has been in elite form, fresh off a 32-point masterclass against the Clippers. Detroit’s young core is clicking at the right time, and their confidence is growing with every win. They are currently on a 7 game win streak! However, history isn’t on their side—the Pistons haven’t beaten Boston since February 2022, when they edged out a 112-111 win.
But tonight could be different. With Kristaps Porzingis sitting out again, Detroit has a real opportunity to dominate inside. The Celtics typically control the paint, but without their 7-foot-3 shot-blocking anchor, they’ll be vulnerable against the Pistons’ physical big men. Cunningham’s aggressive drives will put Boston’s weakened interior defense to the test, and if the Celtics struggle to contain him, they could be in for a long night.
Jan 3, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) reacts after a dunk against the Houston Rockets during the first quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images
However if Kristaps Porzingis could play, the Celtics should have no problem continuing their dominance over Detroit. His ability to space the floor and protect the rim gives Boston a major advantage on both ends. But if he remains out, the Celtics will have to lean heavily on their perimeter shooting—the one area where they still lead the league.
For the Pistons, this game is about proving they can compete with a title contender. For the Celtics, it’s about managing injuries without slipping up. Either way, Kristaps Porzingis’ availability could be the deciding factor in how this matchup plays out.
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