The Boston Celtics pushed their playoff series lead to 2-0 with a 109-100 win over the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night at TD Garden. Though Jayson Tatum was sidelined due to an injury from Game 1, the defending champions leaned on other stars to carry the load. One of the most valiant performances of the night came from Kristaps Porzingis, who not only delivered a double-double but also returned to the game after suffering a gruesome head injury.
The Celtics were in control with a 10-point lead in the third quarter when Porzingis collided with Orlando’s Goga Bitadze during a battle for a rebound. Bitadze’s left elbow struck Porzingis on the forehead and opened a wound that sent blood pouring down his face.
Blood wont stop Kristaps Porziņgis 😤 pic.twitter.com/bU4EzflOQp
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Porzingis sprinted off the court toward the locker room and drew a loud standing ovation from the Boston fans. He received five stitches for the injury.
The 7-footer made his return to the court sporting a large bandage across his forehead and visible trails of dried blood. Porzingis continued to compete fearlessly despite the injury. Bitadze was later hit with a flagrant foul for the play.
Jaylen Brown Salutes Kristaps Porzingis’ Grit
Kristaps Porzingis’ determination set the tone for Boston’s physical approach, and his teammates responded. Jaylen Brown praised Porzingis after the game for his toughness and commitment to the team.
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“He came out and competed. And that’s what we want to see. Even through injury, even through blood everywhere. I think that fires KP up,” Brown said.
Despite the injury, Porzingis didn’t flinch from the moment. He logged 34 minutes and finished with 20 points, 10 rebounds, two blocks, and two steals.
Porzingis’ injury came just during Jayson Tatum’s absence. The Celtics forward missed Game 2 due to a flagrant foul by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in the previous clash. However, it’s expected that Porzingis’ injury wasn’t so bad as to force him to miss Game 3.
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