Porzingis improving, aims to play for Celtics' playoffs

Kristaps Porzingis is recovering after missing eight games due to a viral illness. He stated he is feeling better each day and is eager to play in the final stretch of the season. The Boston Celtics have 13 games left before the playoffs. While there is not much at stake for them, Porzingis wants to stay active. He believes playing more minutes will help him regain his fitness. “I want to definitely play,” he said after a recent win against the Brooklyn Nets. Porzingis has performed well since his return, scoring 24 points in his first game back, and then 25 points along with 13 rebounds, three assists, and three blocks in his next game. He commented on his improving energy levels and is focused on getting back to peak shape. The Celtics are currently in a strong position, holding the No. 2 spot in the Eastern Conference standings. Coach Joe Mazzulla has started to rest some of the main players, including Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, to manage their health. Boston will start a six-game road trip on Friday, facing teams that are at the lower end of the Western Conference standings. Porzingis hopes to achieve a perfect record on this trip, saying, “For us, probably 6-0, no?” He emphasized the team’s expectation to win every game they play.