When the Celtics lifted their eighteenth title last year, Kristaps Porzingis played a major role in making that happen. Although he was limited to playing only three games in the Finals against Dallas, his 20-point performance in the first game set the tone for the entire series. Unfortunately, we have not seen KP on the court so far this season due to his rare foot injury. But the Cs announced that he has reached the “next phase in his recovery” and assigned him to the Maine Celtics for a day’s practice. And his teammate Xavier Tillman revealed how Porzingis fared in that challenge.

Yes, by practicing with the Celtics’ G League affiliate squad on Monday, Porzingis showed that he might be nearing his return. Moreover, Tillman was also part of that practice alongside KP and revealed how the 7’3 star performed, “Yeah, yeah. We played a full scrimmage. He looked good. He’s moving good, feeling good.”

Obviously, there was bound to be some rust because Porzingis has not played in an NBA game since June, but Tillman’s update was positive, “I think with anybody when you haven’t played for months, then you got to find your rhythm, but he looked good though. He looked really good.” Well, Porzingis suffered a ‘torn medial retinaculum allowing dislocation of posterior tibialis tendon’ in his left leg during the Mavs series. And knowing how rare that injury is, its great to hear that he might finally be ready for a comeback following months of rehab from the offseason surgery.

Celtics reportedly targeting a December return for Kristaps Porzingis as Joe Mazzulla provides crucial update

Just like Tillman, Joe Mazzulla is also optimistic about KP’s return. During an interview last week, the head coach said, “He’s been able to do some stuff on the court. Some reads versus the coaches. Some up and down work, 5-on-1 vs. the coaches, so he’s getting there.” Moreover, the Celtics revealed that they will continue to ramp up Porzingis’ workload following the practice session with the G League team.

However, they continue to remain tight-lipped on the timeline of his return. But veteran insider Shams Charania recently said, “The Celtics are targeting December from what I’m told for Kristaps Porzingis and his return.” With the way he is making progress so far, a December return does not seem unlikely. Sure enough, the Celtics would love for that to happen as KP adds to their firepower. Just last season, he averaged 20.1 points and was also a menace on defense. And he will only help the Cs continue their already hot start to the season.