Kristaps Porziņģis faced challenges during the NBA playoffs due to a ‘post-viral syndrome,’ according to Boston Celtics president Brad Stevens. This condition, described as lingering effects from a prolonged illness, significantly impacted Porziņģis’ performance. During the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks, he played limited minutes, averaging 4.2 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks in 15.5 minutes per game. His performance was notably below his regular-season averages of 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks. Despite these struggles, Stevens expressed optimism about Porziņģis’ recovery, noting his improved performance towards the end of the regular season. Porziņģis is expected to participate in the FIBA Eurobasket tournament for Latvia, indicating a full recovery is anticipated. His contract with the Celtics includes one more season at $30.7 million, part of a two-year, $60 million extension signed after his acquisition.
