Porzingis practices, Celtics prepare for undefeated Cavs

NBA: Boston Celtics at Charlotte Hornets

Nov 2, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis shoots before a game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. Porzingis is on injured reserve. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn Images

Nell Redmond/Nell Redmond-Imagn Images

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Porzingis enters “next phase”

Hey there, Celtics fans! Let’s dive into some exciting updates and insights from the world of Boston basketball. First up, Kristaps Porzingis is making strides in his rehabilitation journey. The Celtics announced on Monday that Porzingis has entered the next phase of his recovery, which is fantastic news for the team and fans alike. He practiced with the Maine Celtics, and while we haven’t seen much from the session, the fact that he’s on the court is a positive sign. The goal is to get him back in action by early December, right on schedule. It’s crucial to remember that he’s not being rushed back; he’s simply hitting the early end of his recovery window.

Porzingis’ injury involved a tear in a sheath in his foot, which, once healed, is fully healed—much like charging your phone to 100%. Now, it’s all about getting him ready for the physical demands of NBA basketball. This involves a series of workouts, from intense sessions to lighter recovery runs, ensuring he’s in top shape without overexerting himself. The team is closely monitoring his progress with advanced technology, ensuring he’s ready to hit the court without any lingering soreness.

Celtics vs. Cavs: A Clash of Titans

Now, let’s shift gears to the highly anticipated Celtics vs. Cavs matchup. The Cavs have been on fire, boasting a 15-0 record thanks to their impressive offensive performance. They’ve been sharing the ball more effectively, with Darius Garland stepping up significantly. Garland’s transformation from last season is remarkable, and he’s looking like an All-Star. The Cavs’ offense has been unstoppable, and their ability to score over 130 points in multiple games this season is a testament to their prowess.

However, the Celtics have their own strengths to bring to the table. While the Cavs have been shooting well from beyond the arc, the Celtics have been taking more three-point shots, creating a potential advantage in the math game. The Cavs’ defense might struggle against the Celtics’ five-out play style, especially with some of their key wing defenders out due to injuries. This could open up opportunities for the Celtics to capitalize on their three-point shooting.

The dynamic between Donovan Mitchell and Garland is another intriguing aspect of this matchup. Mitchell has shown a willingness to take a step back, allowing Garland to shine, which is a rare quality in a superstar. This balance has been crucial to the Cavs’ success, and it’s something the Celtics will need to watch out for.

For more insights and a deeper dive into Kristaps Porzingis’ recovery and the Celtics vs. Cavs showdown, tune into the Locked On Celtics podcast for this and much more.

Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Celtics Podcast:

- The impact of Kenny Atkinson on the Cavs’ performance

- How the Cavs’ offensive strategy compares to the Celtics’

- A look at the Cavs’ defensive challenges with key players injured

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